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A Tory Plot. 


A Story of the Attempt to Kill ^ yo 
General Washington in 1776. ilii> 

y 

By JAMES OTIS. ' ’ ' 



With Six Page Illustrations by J. Watson Davis* 


NEW YORK: 

A. L. BUKT, PUBLISHER. 


L. 


•CCONO OOFV, 



42236 

Copyright, 1898, by A. L. Burt. 
Copyright, 1899, by A. L. Burt, 


A TORY PLOT. 

By James Otis. 

TWO COPIES RECEIVED. 


I 







NOTES. 


“A PLOT originated by Tryon, to murder the 
American general officers on the arrival of the 
British, or at best to capture Washington and 
deliver him to Sir William Howe, was discov- 
ered at this time. It was arranged to blow up 
the magazine, secure the passes to the city, and 
at one blow deprive the Kepublicans of their 
leaders, and by massacre or capture annihilate 
the ^ rebel army.’ Mayor Matthews was one of 
the conspirators; and from bis secure place on 
board the Duchess of Gordon, Tryon sent 
money freely to bribe Americans. Two of 
Washington’s guard were seduced, but the 
patriotism of a third was proof against their 
temptations, and he exposed the plot. Matthews, 
Gilbert Forbes (a gunsmith on Broadway), and 
about a dozen others, were immediately arrested 


iv 


NOTES. 


and sent prisoners to Connecticut. It was 
ascertained that about five hundred persons 
were concerned in the conspiracy. Thomas 
Hickey, one of the guard, was hanged on the 
27th of June, 1776. This was the first military 
execution in New York.” — Lossing's Field 
Book of the Revolution^ Vol. II., jpage 595. 

“ Governor Tryon, like so many of the royal 
governors that year, had taken refuge on ship- 
board, whence he schemed and plotted with his 
friends on shore. A plan was devised for blow- 
ing up the magazines and seizing Washington, 
who was either to be murdered or carried on 
board ship to be tried for treason, according as 
the occasion might suggest. The conspiracy 
was discovered in good time ; the Mayor of New 
York, convicted of correspondence with Tryon, 
was thrown into jail, and one of Washington’s 
own guard, who had been bribed to aid the 
nefarious scheme, was summarily hanged in a 
field near the Bowery. Such a discovery as 
this served to throw discredit upon the Tory 
party.” — Fiske's ^'‘American Revolution^ Vol. 
I, page 190. 


CONTENTS 


Lloyd and Dennys 

CHAPTER 1. PAGE 

Giles Smart 

CHAPTER TI. 

26 

Thomas Hickey 

CHAPTER HI. 

The Duchess of Gordon. 

CHAPTER IV. 

77 

Paul Stubbs 

CHAPTER V. 

103 

Prisoners 

CHAPTER VI. 

127 

Guilty 

CHAPTER VII. 

153 

The Escape 

CHAPTER VIII. 


CHAPTER IX. 


VI 


CONTENTS 


CHAPTER X. page 

A Stem Chase 226 

CHAPTER XI. 

Safe 249 


LIST OF ILLUSTEATIONS. 


PAGE 


Caleb Billings was sitting upon a boat which had been drawn 

upon the landing-stage ' 29 

Master Smart made plain the crime proposed by Governor 

William Tryon 93 

Smart and Lloyd were seized roughly by the shoulders 118 

“ Master Hickey,” Billings cried angrily, “dare use the word 
spy to me, and I will settle accounts here.” 133 

“Are you a prisoner too?” Dennys cried in surprise 158 

A scattering volley was sent toward the fugitives, the bullets 
scattering directly above their heads 217 




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<£A]b< 







A TORY PLOT. 


CHAPTER L 

LLOYD AND DENNYS. 

At the corner of Lumber and Stone Streets 
in the city of New York, on a certain June day 
in 1776, two lads of possibly fifteen or sixteen 
years of age, were standing gazing at each other 
with something veiy like consternation written 
upon their faces. 

The eldest, who could not have been more 
than two montlis the senior, was Lloyd Dacre. 
His companion ’and particularly intimate friend 
was Dennys Howland, a lad who came from 
‘‘good fighting stock,” according to Master 
Willett, and who was, like his comrade, Lloyd 
Dacre, especially devoted to the cause of the 


2 


A TORY PLOT. 


Colonies, although foi: one reason and another 
which seemed good and sufficient, he had not 
formally enlisted in the army. 

Dennys had just come from Whitehall Slip 
with certain indefinite information which was, 
to say the least, disquieting to those who loved 
the cause, and had made known the result of 
his newsgathering in the following words : 

“ It is said there are more than five hundred 
men and lads in New York, every one of whom 
is as bitterly opposed to the king as we, who 
believe it would be of advantage to the cause if 
General Washington was removed from the 
command of the army.” 

Surely you have met with those who are 
inclined to play upon your credulity,” Lloyd 
said almost sharply, and his friend replied with 
no little show of heat : 

If I say to you that Master Matthews, the 
mayor of the city, be one who holds to such 
opinion, then what will you think ?” 


A TORY PLOT. 


3 


That he has suddenly lost his senses, or 
been bouglit with British gold. Since Governor 
Tryon believed his precious body was safer on 
board the armed ship, Duchess of Gordon, than 
in his residence here, it has been told me that 
he is lavish with the king’s money, particularly 
among those who have espoused the cause but 
are yet weak kneed, fearing lest the king may 
crush them in his wrath.” 

Be that as it may, Lloyd, the truth remains 
as 1 have spoken. There is being hatched in 
this city a plot against our General Washing- 
ton.” 

If such be the case it were well you had 
asked for an interview with the commander- 
in-chief even before spending the time to meet 
me here.” 

And a pretty figure would I cut though an 
audience was granted ! What think you would 
be my reception if I presented myself to General 
Washington and said that I had heard these 


4 


A TORY PLOT. 


things among the idle ones at Whitehall 
Slip ?” 

“He would demand some proof that your 
statement was true.” 

“ Of a surety. And how could I give it him? 
I am certain that mischief is being hatched, but 
more I cannot say.” 

Denny’s earnest tone had had its effect upon 
his friend, and Lloyd stood gazing in mingled 
fear and bewilderment during a certain number 
of seconds when neither spoke, and then he 
asked, as if believing it was impossible to solve 
what appeared much like a riddle : 

“ What was in your mind, Dennys, when you 
came to me? Had you a thought that per- 
chance I might be able to put a stopper on this 
plot — if plot there be ?” 

“ There was no reason why I should repeat 
this thing, save that you were my friend, and 
one whom I did not believe would cast ridicule 
upon another’s good intentions. It had come 


A TORY PLOT. 


5 


to me that perchance we might be so fortunate 
as to gain the proof which General Washington 
would demand, and in such season that the wick- 
edness which is now spreading over the city, 
thanks to Governor Tryon’s gold and Master 
Matthews’ tory inclinations, could be crushed 
out.” 

And in what way, Dennys, might you and 
I compass all this ?” Lloyd asked, still inclined 
to doubt what his friend had told him. 

^^That I know not; but if it could be that we 
might overturn these traitors, it Avould benefit 
the cause wondrously — we should be accom- 
plishing more than if we had signed our names 
to the rolls of some company and were carrying 
muskets.” 

‘^All that I grant you, and right willingly 
would I do all in my power; but it seems to me 
much as though it might be working in the 
dark and at random, for how may we two 
expect those who conspire against the com- 


6 


A TORY PLOT. 


maDder-in-chief to divulge their plans to 
us r 

It could easily be compassed if you were of 
the mind to take part in the work.” 

I have already said I would do so willingly, 
but I know not how we should set about it.” 

I am not quick-witted as you are, Lloyd, and 
fail to see those difficulties which you perceive 
at a glance ; but it has come into my mind that 
if we were willing to give certain people in this 
city to understand we might join them in their 
purpose, all which now seems dark would be 
made plain.” 

“ Do you mean that we should become con- 
spirators ?” Lloyd asked, moving back a pace as 
if angry such a suggestion had been made, and 
his friend replied with more of confidence than 
he had as yet displayed : 

Ay, so that good might come thereby.” 

“But it may be, Dennys, that there are others 
in this city as far-sighted as you — that your dis- 


A TORY PLOT. 


7 


covery of the plot is not the first, and we, join- 
ing the conspirators, might find ourselves some 
fine day between two files of soldiers, charged 
with aiding and abetting those who would ruin 
the colony.” 

“ I know full well that I am slow at argu- 
ment, Lloyd, and not so keen but that there 
may be many true Americans who have learned 
more than the little I heard at Whitehall Slip ; 
but in such case no harm could be done by my 
zeal, nor, if my plan was carried out, would it 
be possible we should be charged with any such 
horrible crime.” 

How would you prevent it ? Suppose that 
at this moment General Washington knew what 
was being done, and only awaited the proper 
time when he should lay his hand heavily upon 
the conspirators? Then if we were among them 
think you the plea that we had joined the ranks 
of the traitors simply to aid the cause would be 
believed ? Surely it would be a most lame de- 


8 


A TORY PLOT. 


fense, for all miglit say the same in order to 
save their necks.” 

admit the truth of what you say, provid- 
ing I propose to set about it in that bungling 
fashion. It was in my mind, however, to be 
more careful how I consorted with traitors.” 

‘‘ In what way ?” 

I would present myself to General Putnam, 
who, as you know, is friendly toward my father, 
and telling him what little has been learned by 
me this day, make an offer to put myself in a 
position to hear more, which I doubt not could 
be readily done.” 

Now it appears to me that there is in your 
mind something of moment, Dennys Howland,” 
and Lloyd evinced quite as much of interest as 
he previously had of apathy. If you, having 
heard only so little of this supposed conspiracy, 
can make a plan which would enable us to be 
of benefit to the cause, I am with you heart and 
soul, as I ever am in anything you proposed.” 


A TORY PLOT. 


9 


It has taken you a long while to come to 
that conclusion.” 

Because you were so slow in getting at the 
point, I had supposed you counted on going 
ahead blindly, and even now there is much you 
have left unprovided for.” 

“ In what way ?” 

First it appears to me that for two lads like 
you and I to undertake the overthrow of plans 
laid by such men as Governor Tryon and Master 
Matthews, is a task beyond our powers ; but 
even though we should be so fortunate as to 
succeed, much time must be spent, and liow 
will you account at home for your absence ?” 

“ It is not my purpose to leave the city, for 
from all I have heard the conspirators are here 
doing their work directly under the eyes of the 
commander-in-chief.” 

^^Even in such case you must be much abroad 
on the streets, and that we have been warned 
against.” 


10 


A TORY PLOT. 


had counted on makiug my father ac» 
quainted with all I would do, after having seen 
General Israel Putnam. If it so be that officer 
appears to believe we might be of service, then 
the necessary arrangements could readily be 
made; but if he should laugh at my presump- 
tion, then no one save you would know I had 
allowed myself to be so foolish.” 

Lloyd could conjure up no more bugbears 
against the plan proposed by his friend, and 
during this conversation he had come to believe 
that Dennys’ ideas were not only practicable, 
but might be the means of enabling them to 
win much credit, and perhaps renown, boys 
though they were. 

When w^ould you go to General Putnam ?” 
he asked. 

^^At once, if you are disposed to bear me 
company, and should he laugh at my plans 
there need be no further conversation between 
us regarding what seems to me a most serious 


A TORY PLOT. 


11 


matter, although you are disposed to cast dis- 
credit upon its importance.” 

Not so, Dennys. It is in my mind that if 
you can so already get information of such a 
plot, it must really be known to General Wash- 
ington and his officers. I do not view the mat- 
ter lightly; but only question whether it is be- 
ing kept a profound secret when a lad may 
overhear it on the street, as you have done.” 

“All that may be known, once we have had 
speech with General Putnam, and if you are 
agreed, we wdll go to him now.” 

Lloyd gave token of his wdllingness by start- 
ing off at a rapid pace up Stone Street toward 
Broadway, and before they were arrived at the 
mansion formerly occupied by Captain Kennedy 
of the British ai*my, where was General Put- 
nam’s headquarters, he was quite as eager in 
the business as his friend; but exceedingly 
doubtful as to the kind of a reception they 
they might meet with from the officer. 


12 


A TORY PLOT. 


It was not a simple matter for the two lads 
to gain an interview with the busy soldier, for 
there were many waiting to see him ; but these 
boys were admitted in turn as though they were 
important citizens, and once they stood before 
him Dennys’ confidence vanished. His tongue 
did not run as glibly as while he was laying the 
matter before his friend, and standing uneasily, 
first on one foot and then the other, he stam- 
mered and hesitated until the general said with 
more of kindness than of impatience in his tone : 

Well, my lad, what is it? Why have you 
two come?” 

‘^My comrade believes he has heard that 
which if not already known to you, sir, is of 
importance,” Lloyd said courteously, and it was 
as if this served to restore to Dennys his self- 
possession, for without awaiting a reply from 
the general, he said promptly : 

First by accident, and then through eaves- 
dropping, I have learned that there is in this city 


A TORY PLOT. 


18 


a conspiracy among several hundred of the citi- 
zens to do a mischief to the commander-in chief, 
and it was in my mind that you should be made 
acquainted with the fact.” 

Lloyd expected to see a smile come over the 
general’s face, and to hear him say that this was 
stale news; but instead the officer appeared de- 
cidedly concerned, as he began to question 
Dennys sharply. 

Where did you hear anything of the kind, 
lad?” 

Near to Whitehall Slip, sir. I saw a sol- 
dier of the commander-in-chief’s guard talking 
with some boatmen whom I knew, and on 
drawing near for the purpose of accosting my 
acquaintance, the man said : ^ We already num- 
ber more than five hundred, who are minded to 
make a change of commanders.’ The fact of 
his being in uniform caused me to think there 
was something sinister in the words, and I 
loitered until one of the boatmen said something 


14 


A TORY PLOT. 


to this effect : You may be certain, Master 
Hickey, that we are with you, so far as was 
first proposed ; but now that you talk of shed- 
ding blood, we would wait awhile until the 
matter can be digested.’ ” 

‘‘Well, well, what then?” General Putnam 
asked, as if impatient to hear the remainder. 
“ Did you learn nothing more ?” 

“ They spoke in lower tones from that out ; 
but it was to my mind as if the soldier bore 
heavily upon them because they would shrink 
from their oaths, and he seemed to threaten, 
whereat the boatman asked further questions, 
of which I could catch only here and there a 
word, until I w^as drawn so nigh that the con- 
versation ceased.” 

“ What did you gather from this last portion 
of their talk ?” 

“ That the soldier was urging them to hold 
fast to some portion of a plan which he had 
just made known, and that it concerned the 


A TORY PLOT. 


15 


commander-in-chief I know, because his name 
was spoken >aany times. Not only that, but 
Master Matthews himself, the mayor, was 
brought into the talk as if he had some influence 
over this soldier.” 

“What was the name you repeated as having 
been applied to the member of the guard ?” 

“ They called him Master Hickey, sir.” 

General Putnam made note of this fact, and 
then turned toward Dennys expectantly, whereat 
the latter, determined to present his plan while 
yet there was time, said eagerly : 

“ If it might be, sir, that two lads like my 
comrade and I could be of service, it would 
pleasure us greatly. Prevented from enlisting 
because of our mothers’ fears, we would do all 
in our power so it could be said we had bene- 
fited the cause.” 

“ I know of no other way to gain your wish 
save by persuading your parents to agree to an 
enlistment.” 


16 


A TORY PLOT. 


^^Why could we not learn more regarding 
this plot, sir ?” Dennys asked, now grown bold 
because of the general’s friendly bearing. 

‘‘How might you do that, young sir?” 

“ If it should be that we represent ourselves 
as willing to go into the wicked plans of these 
men, it is not impossible that they would trust 
us.” 

“ And you would spy upon them?” 

“You may call it by any name you piease, 
sir, so that we do the work, and are able to give 
you yet farther information.” 

“Have you your parents’ consent to do such 
a thing?” 

“No, sir; but that might be gained. I think 
you know my father, Abraham Howland ?” 

“ I do indeed, and if you be his son then I 
may have confidence in you. Who is your 
comrade ?” 

“ Lloyd Dacre. 

“ Is his father living ?” 


A TORY PLOT. 


17 


Ay, sir,” Lloyd replied. He is a merchant 
doing business on Beaver Street.” 

“ I think I have heard his name among those 
'who have aided the cause with money.” 

“ Yes, sir ; that he has done as I know.” 

And you two lads would turn conspirators 
for the time being ? Why did you not do so 
before coming to me ; then perchance your 
budget of news had been larger?” 

^^We were not certain but that you knew all 
this some time since, and instead of merely play- 
ing the part of conspirators, we might be 
apprehended as really plotting against General 
Washington.” 

It was well thought of, lad, for while as yet 
I have no other knowledge concerning this 
alleged conspiracy, it might be discovered at 
any moment, and you would not have done well 
to play the spy without having first taken some 
precaution.” 

Then you see no reason why we should 


18 


A TORY PLOT. 


not do as I have said, sir?” Dennys asked 
eagerly. 

None, my lad, and perchance it may be a 
most expeditious method of ferreting out the 
plot. You two boys would hardly be suspected 
of joining the conspirators for the purpose of 
betraying them, and if it so chance that you 
succeed in learning all we might wish to know, 
I promise, so far as one may for another, that 
General Washington will reward you gener- 
ously for the service.” 

‘^It is not for the sake of reward, sir, that we 
would do this thing; but in order that we 
might aid the cause in such manner, because 
we are forbidden to serve the .colony with 
muskets.” 

^‘You speak well, lad, and much as would 
your father. I will make note here of all 
you have said, and leave it in the hands of a 
trusty person, so that, should any accident be- 
fall me, it can readily be made known why you 


A TORY PLOT. 


19 


consorted with traitors to the cause. It is not 
well you should come here too often after once 
having pretended to join these men. Therefore 
in due time I will send some one who shall 
make himself known to you, and to whom you 
can repeat all you have learned without fear 
that it will be told to any but myself.” 

Having thus spoken he rose to his feet, and 
Dennys believed this movement to be an 
intimation that the interview should come to an 
end. 

He and Lloyd bowed respectfully, as boys 
should to their seniors, and as they withdrew 
heard General Putnam say to an officer who had 
that moment entered : 

Major, is Paul Stubbs on duty outside ?” 

He is, sir ?” 

“ Have him note well these two lads, who are 
just going out, so that should occasion require, 
he may recognize them again.” 

The major turned quickly, stepping in 


20 


A TORY PLOT. 


advance of Lloyd and Dennys, and the two saw 
him speak to a private soldier who was stand- 
ing on guard in the hallway of the house, where- 
at the man favored them with a searching look 
as they passed, and Lloyd whispered to his 
comrade : 

“ It seems much as if we had only succeeded 
in bringing suspicion upon ourselves.” 

“ How may that be ?” 

Yonder soldier has been told to remember 
our faces so he may find us again when we are 
wanted, which means that the general might 
decide we had not told all the truth.” 

^‘You are oversuspicious and unreasonably 
so, for that command was given by General 
Putnam in a tone loud enough for us to hear, 
and as I take it he intended we should know 
that the soldier on duty there would be the one 
he would send to have speech with us after we 
were well set about our work.” 

^'It may be you are right,” Lloyd said 


A TORY PLOT. 


thoughtfully, “aud yet to be poiuted out thus 
is not to my mind.” 

Perhaps the time may come when you will 
cease to doubt the motive of every person 
around you; but I question whether my life will 
be long enough to see that moment, for you are 
prone to be suspicious of everyone — even me — 
wljen a slip of the tongue gives you a fancied 
cause.” 

In these times it is better to suspect every 
man, and thereby keep on your guard, than to 
believe each one you meet is a friend, and some 
day find your confidence betrayed.” 

This was a matter concerning which the boys 
often spoke, and sometimes with great heat, for 
Lloyd’s suspicious nature showed itself strongly 
now and then, much to the displeasure of his 
fi’iend. 

“ We will not go back to that subject to-day 
at least,” Dennys said with a laugh after a brief 
pause, for we have embarked upon an adven- 


22 


A TORY PLOT. 


ture which may make our names famous when, 
many years after we are dead, people read of 
this resistance to the king’s oppression.” 

“ Already you have found a plot and crushed 
it,” Lloyd replied with a hearty laugh. 

“ Do not think my mind runs so far in the 
future as that; but we have taken a certain 
number of strides toward crushing the con- 
spiracy, if there be one, for now we are fully 
authorized to set about the work.” 

‘^And you will begin it at once?” 

So soon as I have gained my father’s per- 
mission, and it is in my mind that it would be 
well for both of us to start fair in this matter, 
by first making all the necessary arrangements. 
I will go home now, and you shall do the same. 
We will partake of our dinner as if we were 
the idle lads of the city that we were an hour 
ago, and as soon as may be thereafter, meet 
nearabout the Exchange, or perhaps Dock Street 
would be better, just beyond Broad.” 


A TORY PLOT. 


23 


is it in that quarter you expect to find your 
conspirators ?” 

It is near Whitehall Slip that we may find 
the boatman of whom I spoke, and once that 
has been done I am of the mind that the rest 
will be easy.’’ 

still hold to it that if this plot is talked 
of so boldly on the public streets, and if you 
may learn all concerning it by asking a few 
questions, then it is of no great importance to 
us, or of danger to the commander-in-chief.” 

^Wet General Putnam was not of that same 
opinion, for he gave us an attentive ear when I 
repeated the story.” 

“ Perhaps he did so because of his friendship 
for your father.” 

“ He knew not who I was at the time, but 
listened eagerly to what I said. However, there 
is no reason, Lloyd, why you should join me in 
what may prove to be a thankless task, unless 
it is your desire, for peradventure, one may ac- 


24 


A TORY PLOT. 


complish as much as two, and I am willing to 
take upon myself the ridicule in case this proves 
to be a bugbear, for the sake of learning to a 
certainty whether it be of importance.” 

“You speak as if it were possible for you to 
do as you please in the matter.” 

“ I believe by adroitly speaking I can per- 
suade these boatmen that I am ready to take 
part in the plot, for it is my purpose to let them 
know that I have an inkling of it.” 

“ And you believe they will welcome a boy 
to their ranks ?” 

“ Why not ? Surely I might do as much as 
a man in such wickedness.” 

“I shall remain with you, Dennys, if for no 
other purpose than to prevent you from running 
your head into trouble, for there is in my mind 
the idea that if — mind you I say /f— there be 
anything of a serious nature in this supposed 
conspiracy, then there may be somewhat of 
danger to you who would betray the secret.” 


A TORY PLOT. 


25 


Of that I have no doubt, yet I am willing 
to make the venture because of the good which 
may come from it. Now if you will, let us go 
home, and meet by the Exchange an hour later.” 


26 


A TORY PLOT. 


CHAPTEE II. 

GILES SMART. 

It was nearly three o’clock when the two 
friends were again together on Dock Street, 
near the Exchange. 

Dennys had been at the rendezvous nearly 
an hour before Lloyd appeared, and but for the 
confidence he had in his friend he might not 
have lingered, believing Lloyd had abandoned 
the enterprise. 

I knew you would come, else I had not re- 
mained idle nearly two hours,” he said when his 
comrade appeared, breathless, as if from rapid 
running. ^^I was certain you would at least 
meet me to say you had given over the work, if 
such was the case; but the time has seemed 
long nevertheless.” 


A TORY PLOT. 


My father was late in coming home, and it 
was necessary I see him first,” Lloyd replied. 

“ Then he gave his consent ?” 

“ Yes ; but not right willingly. He believed 
there was more of danger than honor to be 
gained in such an adventure, and said it would 
be more manly to enlist as a soldier than play 
the sneak upon the streets in the hope of trap- 
ping the unwary.” 

^‘Does he call it playing the sneak to do that 
which may perhaps be the means of saving 
General Washington’s life?” Dennys asked 
hotly. 

^^He fails to look at the matter as you do, 
believing that the words spoken at Whitehall 
Slip were idle ones, having no real meaning.” 

Why does he assume that ?” 

Because you mentioned one of the general’s 
guard as seeming to be the leader, and my father 
sa3^s that is impossible, for every soldier in that 
company is tried and true — that he would as 


28 


A TORY PLOT. 


soon think General Putnam himself had turned 
traitor as that one of those soldiers should be 
false to his oath.” 

“ It is nevertheless true that I heard him 
speaking words which breathed not only of 
disloyalty, but of murder.” 

“That you believe so I have no question, 
Dennys ; I but told you what my father said, in 
explaining why I was late at the rendezvous,” 
and now Lloyd spoke impatiently, as if he was 
not minded to go into further details. 

“ But he gave his consent finally ?” 

“ Ay, else I should not be so long in the ex- 
plaining; yet it was grudgingly given, and I 
am almost persuaded that the venture we in- 
tend to make is a foolish one.” 

“Then why embark upon it ? I can go alone — 
perhaps not as well ; but yet to such effect that 
the purpose may be served.” 

“ I the same as agreed to do so before General 
Putnam, and shall not now go back on my word, 



Caleb Billings was sitting upon a boat, which had been drawn upon th^ 
landing-stage.— Page 29, 


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A TORY PLOT. 


29 


whatever opinion I may hold,” Lloyd replied 
sharply. You are the one who has proposed 
this scheme, therefore it is your place to take 
the lead. What is to be done ?” 

^‘To my mind it is best we find the boatman 
whom I know, Caleb Billings, and with him we 
will loiter, if it so be he has no work on hand.” 

‘Wou think to find him at Whitehall Slip?” 

“ Yes,” Dennys replied, and without further 
conversation he led the way in that direction, 
Lloyd following a few paces behind as if to 
show that while he joined in the venture he did 
not give it his full countenance. 

The amateur spies had no difficulty in finding 
Caleb Billings; he was a boatman who most 
enjoyed lounging around the wharves, and most 
disliked plying his vocation. He was sitting 
upon a boat which had been drawn up on the 
landing-stage, and with him was a young man 
whom neither of the boys remembered to have 
seen before. 


30 


A TORY PLOT. 


Billings greeted the lads in a careless fashion 
as if to intimate that he was not in a mood, or 
lacked the time, to hold converse with them, 
and continued speaking animatedly to his com- 
panion, but guarding his voice so that the words 
might not be overheard. 

Dennys, intent only on the part he had pro- 
posed to play, pressed forward, intruding him- 
self upon Master Billings’ notice ; but Lloyd 
held back, and for the moment was pleased that 
he did so, when he heard the boatman say : 

‘^At some other time, young sir, I will be 
glad to have speech with you; but now my 
moments are occupied.” 

Hearing this Lloyd stepped back yet further ; 
but Dennys, on the contrary, advanced another 
pace. 

^‘Perhaps you speak of that. Master Billings, 
in which I would share.” 

Both the boatman and the stranger looked 
up quickly — Dennys fancied suspiciously — 


A TORY PLOT. 


31 


when he thus spoke, and after manifest hesita- 
tion, the boatman asked : 

“ How can you know what may be the sub- 
ject of our conversation 

I may guess from that which I have seen, 
and more because of knowing certain matters.” 
Such as what ?” the stranger asked sharply. 

“ That it would be of benefit to the Colony 
if some other was in command of the American 
forces.” 

Now the two men exchanged glances, and the 
stranger whispered, yet not so loud but that 
Dennys could hear quite distinctly : 

Is he one of us ?” 

“Not as I know.” 

“Then it is well we learned how he has 
come by his knowledge, or his suspicion, which- 
ever it may be.” 

At this the boatman, looking around to make 
certain there was none save Lloyd who might 
overhear his words, asked : 


32 


A TORY PLOT. 


Why should you have said it were better 
some other were in command of the American 
forces ?” 

That I cannot rightly explain, Master Bill- 
ings. I know this much, however : That such 
talk is being made, and that there be gold for 
those who are of the same mind.” 

“ Then it is only for gain you have come to 
that opinion ?” the stranger asked. 

That is as may be,” Dennys replied, begin- 
ning to fear he had been too abrupt in thus at- 
tempting to play his part. 

Now it was he would have drawn back, and 
begun by making apologies for having intruded, 
saying he would return later when Master Bill- 
ings might be at liberty ; but before he could 
move away by even so much as a pace, the 
stranger detained him. 

It is well you should explain yourself at 
greater length, young sir,” and the man laid 
hold of Dennys’ collar as if thinking he might 


A TORY PLOT. 


33 


attempt to run away. must know what 

you meant by those words, else the consequences 
are likely to be serious for you.” 

^^That I cannot say of a verity,” Dennys re- 
plied, wishing most sincerely he had been less 
abrupt in his method of beginning the task. 

You can explain why you made such a re- 
mark.” 

Yes, and yet it will be in a lame fashion. I 
have heard now and then a word here and there, 
and seen at various times certain men together 
who appeared to be interested in some weighty 
matter, and I desire to have a hand in it, for 
whatsoever is for the good of the Colony, that 
I would do, even though I be but a boy.” 

What words have you heard ?” 

Only so much as gave me to understand, so 
I have already said, that it would be better if 
some other were in command of the forces. Of 
a verity, that is all I know, sir.” 

And yet, understanding no more than that. 


34 


A TORY PLOT. 


you would blindly go into any business which 
might be serious?” 

“ I would do whatsoever I could that seemed 
best for the Colony.” 

^‘But your comrade, who hangs back as if 
timorous, is he of the same opinion ?” 

Suspiciously inclined though he might be, 
Lloyd was not cowardly, and having embarked 
upon this venture, had no idea of deserting his 
friend at the moment when he appeared to be 
getting himself into difficulties. 

^^That I am,” he replied, promptly stepping 
forward, and Master Billings asked with no little 
show of suspicion : 

“ How does it come that the son of Master 
Dacre, a wealthy man, as I have been told, 
would loiter here or there in the hope of pick- 
ing up a gold-piece which might not be come at 
without hard labor — perhaps through danger?” 

^‘Even though my father be wealthy, I might 
have as much affection for gold as you, Master 


A TORY PLOT. 


35 


Billings, and perchance be inclined to the same 
way of thinking.” 

The boatman and the stranger exchanged 
glances once more, and it seemed as if there was 
a question in the former’s eyes, for it was 
answered by a nod, whereat Master Billings 
said : 

Young sirs, this be Master Giles Smart, of 
whom mayhap you have heard.” 

There was one by that name, if I remember 
rightly, in Governor Tryon’s household,” 
Dennys replied, understanding now that he was 
face to face with him who was most active in 
the plot, if indeed a plot existed. I have 
heard it said, however, that when the governor 
took refuge on the Duchess of Gordon, Master 
Smart decided to return to England.” 

That he did not do so you have good proof,” 
the stranger said with a smile as of friendliness, 
and he added after another glance at the boat- 
man, ^^It may be you young gentlemen can 


36 


A TORY PLOT. 


embark in an enterprise which will bring to all 
concerned not only much gold, but rich rewards 
to those who prove themselves worthy.” 

“We are ready, sir, for anything which prom- 
ises well,” Dennys said at the same time that 
a sensation as of fear came over him because he 
was progressing so rapidly in the task. 

He had believed it would be exceeding diffi- 
cult to compass his purpose, and yet here at the 
very outset, before having been engaged in the 
work ten minutes, was the plot about to be 
opened before him. 

As for Lloyd, he now began to understand 
that there was much more in these chance words 
his comrade had heard than either his father or 
himself believed, and something very like fear 
was in his heart also, when this man whom he 
knew must be one of the leaders in the con- 
spiracy, appeared willing to enroll them in the 
list of those who would wreck the cause of 
American liberty. 


A TORY PLOT. 


37 


You are not so eager, it seems to me, when 
the way is opened for you,” Master Billings 
said with a laugh. If it so be you lads have 
heard aught concerning the business project, 
and were willing to enter it, why do you seem- 
ingly draw back now ?” 

There is no thought in our hearts of draw- 
ing back,” Lloyd replied. ‘^We but await 
Master Smart’s explanations or propositions, 
whichever he may have to make,” 

^^Do you expect he will explain his purposes 
to every curious one who comes ?” 

I was led to think he would do so with us, 
because of that which he said.” 

It may be I shall, young sirs,” Master Smart 
replied ; “ but it will first be necessary for me 
to know whether I may have perfect confidence 
in you. I am not disposed to deny but that 
we have on hand an adventure which promises 
richly for those who embark in it ; but yet we 
can enlist none save the most trustworthy, and 


38 A TORY PLOT. 

must have some guarantee of good faith from 
each who joins us.” 

How may we give such as that ?” Dennys 
asked in perplexity. Master Billings knows 
us, and more than that cannot be said by any 
one. He also is acquainted with our fathers.” 

“And it is because of that, perhaps, that 
Master Smart hesitates,” the boatman said. 
“ I know your father, Lloyd Dacre, and with 
all due respect, believe him to be a man who 
always looks to see on which side his bread is 
buttered. If perchance the colonies will give 
him more advantage, then is he a true Ameri- 
can; but let the king show him that his interest 
might lay at court, and he would speedily 
become what some of the good people in this 
city are pleased to call a Tory. As for your 
father, Dennys Howland, I cannot speak so 
satisfactorily. It is said he has taken up the 
cause of the Colonists and no man holds to a 
purpose as steadfastly as Abraham Howland.” 


A TORY PLOT. 


39 


^‘And how may that be to my credit or dis- 
credit ?” Dennys said. 

I leave the answer for Master Smart,” the 
boatman said, and straightway he fell silent as 
if not minded to bear any further part of the 
conversation. 

Master Smart remained as if in deep thought, 
and the boys gazed at him inquiringly, but not 
venturing to speak until after two or three 
minutes had thus passed, when Dennys made 
bold to say : 

“ So much has been hinted at that now it 
would seem as if we must know more.” 

What price are you willing to pay for the 
information ?” Master Smart asked at length. 

^‘What price?” Dennys repeated, and both 
the boys looked perplexed. 

“Ay, I meant those exact words. If, from 
motives of gain you would join in the adven- 
ture, there must be'something contributed by you, 
else why should others accept you as partners ?” 


40 


A TORY PLOT. 


There is no reason, save it should be that 
lads like us, who can do a man’s work, might 
be needed,” Dennys replied. 

^^Even though they should be, there are 
plenty who stand ready to take advantage of 
the opportunity, and would be willing to pay 
the price demanded,” Master Smart repeated, 
and his words only served to further increase 
the bewilderment of the lads. 

<< Why do you not tell us what it is you 
demand?” Lloyd asked. We cannot agree 
to, or refuse, a matter of which we know 
nothing.” 

“The price set upon a share in the adven- 
ture, which will enrich and perhaps ennoble 
those who bear a hand in it, is a guarantee of 
good faith, concerning which J have already 
spoken. Now I would know how far you lads 
may be willing to go in order to give us that 
pledge ?” 

“Make the demand, and we shall speedily 


A TORY PLOT. 


41 


see whether we can comply with it or not,” 
Lloyd replied. 

“ Will yon go with me on board the Duchess 
of Gordon ?” 

To whsit end ?” 

“ That we may there satisfy the governor who 
is in authority over you.” 

“On what point might we give him satis- 
faction ?” 

“That you are, and will be, loyal to the 
king.” 

“But that is what we are not,” Dennys 
replied quickly, as a sudden thought came into 
his mind. He realized now was come the time 
when he might prevent suspicion from attaching 
to this effort to enter the plot. “ That we are 
not,” he repeated, “ nor shall we be until it is 
shown more to our interest.” 

“Meaning you would serve for the highest 
price, either king or colony?” 

“It is somewhat of that nature. Master 


43 


A TORY PLOT. 


Smart ; yet perhaps we would not put it in 
such words.” 

^‘Do you refuse to board the Duchess of 
Gordon with me ?” 

^‘Not so,” Lloyd replied promptly. ‘^Yet 
we would much prefer to receive some assur- 
ance before going that it w^ould be to our 
interest.” 

^^And whose word would you lads most 
desire ?” 

^‘Almost any one would suffice for us,” 
Dennys said. ^‘If this venture be one that 
honest men may embark in, whether it be in 
favor of the king or no, why should not some 
one of our men high in authority be able to 
advise ?” 

Would you listen well to the worthy Master 
Matthews, the mayor of this city?” 

“Ay, that we would, and do whatsoever he 
should advise.” 

“ Without appealing to your fathers ?” 


A TORY PLOT. 


43 


There is no reason why we should make 
further riddles; Dennys exclaimed as if tiring 
of this roundabout fashion of coming to the 
point. “I believe this adventure of which you 
speak has somewhat to do with work the king 
would have done. We are not unwilling to 
join in ifc, and would readily board the Duchess 
of Gordon with you, should Master Matthews 
say he knew by his own knowledge that it 
might be done by such as we.'’ 

Now it was that Master Smart called the 
boatman aside, and the two held a private con- 
versation upon the question, as the boys 
believed, of admitting them into such a con- 
spiracy, and Dennys could not forbear whisper- 
ing to his comrade: 

It was rnore than idle words that I heard, 
Lloyd Dacre, and the work upon which we 
set out seems easy of accomplishment.” 

admit I was wrong in making sport of 
what seems to be a serious matter, and I have 


44 


A TORY PLOT. 


no doubt we shall soon gain all the information 
which is wanted ; but there is something in 
this desire to have us go on board the Duchess 
of Gordon which perplexes me. I suspect it 
to be a plot against us.” 

‘'Why should they attempt to work us harm 
when by refusing to speak we had kept outside 
of the conspiracy ? It would be fools’ work to 
give us their secret, and then do us a mischief 
because we had it.” 

“True; but yet I like not the thought of 
visiting Governor Tryon.” 

“ If that be the only price we are asked to pay, 
we shall of a surety get our knowledge cheaply, 
and what appears equally well for us, we are 
like to know that Master Matthews is engaged 
in this plot against the colonies.” 

There was no opportunity for the boys to 
speak further on the subject, for by this time 
Master Smart had concluded his consultation 
with the boatman and advanced toward them. 


A TORY PLOT. 


45 


“You shall be assured that the adventure in 
whicb we would have you einl)ark is a worthy 
one ; but it may not be done at once. All the 
sureties cannot come from our side. It is true 
we would have you join us in the work, and 
Mall satisfy all your scruples, as you must ours.” 

“ How may that be done ?” Dennys asked. 

“Are you minded to give a certain portion of 
your time, say twenty-four hours, to this 
adventure, without knowing what it may be ?” 

“ But if we are 

“Then it Mall seem to me that you have 
earned the right to be assured all M^e would do 
is for the good of the colony. That much 
Master Matthews shall make plain to you. 
Then you will solemnly swear to reveal to no 
one, and particularly to your fathers, what we 
would do, promising meanwhile to work faith- 
fully toward the accomplishment of our pur- 
pose.” 

“You speak in riddles, sir,” Dennys said, 


46 


A TORY PLOT. 


^^and mayhap the better way of reading them 
will be for you to tell us in plain words what 
you want done.” 

We have need of a messenger, and I had 
come to seek out Billings for such purpose. 
Now will you undertake a mission which is 
simply to deliver a letter to one in the garrison 
at West Point, promising that no person shall 
have reason to suspect what you may be 
about?” 

And that is all there is to the work ?” 

“ To deliver the letter secretly ; that is all.” 

‘^Then we will undertake it,” Lloyd said 
quickly. ‘^But first it will be necessary we 
make some explanation to our parents, else 
would it be thought we had fallen into the 
hands of the press-gang.” 

‘‘Make whatsoever explanation you will so 
that you tell not the truth,” Master Smart said, 
“and when you are prepared for the journey 
come here. Either Caleb Billings or myself 


A TORY PLOT. 


47 


will give you further instructions. Set off at 
once, for I would have you begin the mission 
within the hour.” 

Without further delay the boys started at a 
rapid pace down Dock Street, and when they 
were well beyond earshot of the conspirators, 
Dennys said with a chuckle of satisfaction : 

It will not be long before we can acquaint 
General Putnam with a secret of great moment, 
else what is the meaning of this assurance from 
Master Matthews, and the desire that we board 
the Duchess of Gordon in order to pay our re- 
spects to Governor Tryon ?” 

“ There is much of wickedness being hatched 
in this city, and I am ashamed to think I should 
have laughed at your words this morning. If 
it could be ” 

He was interrupted by a young man in the 
garb of a civilian, who stepped directly in front 
of him in such manner as to block the way, and 
looking up Lloyd fancied the stranger’s face 


48 


A TORY PLOT. 


was familiar, yet could not remember where he 
had seen it before. 

Have you anything to tell me ?” the man 
asked in a whisper, lurching against Lloyd as 
he spoke in such a manner one would have be- 
lieved him to be under the influence of liquor, 
and that the encounter was an accident. 

“What should I have to tell you?” Lloyd 
asked in surprise. 

I was sent by one whom you visited this 
afternoon.” 

“ Is it the soldier ?” Dennys asked, literally 
trembling wuth excitement. 

^^It is— the one whom you heard called Taul 
Stubbs.’ Now tell me quickly, lest any one 
should see us speaking; would you send word 
to General Putnam?” 

As briefly as miglit be the boys explained 
the substance of the interview with Master 
Smart, and stated that there was no question 
but that they would receive permission from 


A TORY PLOT. 


49 


their parents to do as the conspirators had re- 
quested. 

We shall set out within the hour,” Dennys 
said in conclusion, ^^and most likely be back 
some time to-morrow.” 

Take boat from nearabout the foot of Barclay 
Street, if it so be you can, or if they provide 
one for you at Whitehall Slip, stop at the place 
I have mentioned, for it may be the general 
would give you some instructions ; but this 
much seems to me necessary for you to do: 
Mark well to whom this letter, or whatever it 
may be, is delivered ; take good heed of the 
man’s face, so that you may be able to point 
him out at any time it becomes necessary.” 

“Then you know of the work in which we 
are engaged?” 

“ The major has since given me a hint, so that 
I may do my share of the task understandingly, 
and were I in your place I should remember 
every person with whom I came in contact, for 


50 


A TORY PLOT. 


it seems to me that is the most important part 
of your task.” 

As he said this Paul Stubbs lounged in ap- 
parently an aimless fashion up the street, and 
the two lads hastened toward their homes. 


A TORY PLOT. 


51 


CHAPTER III. 

THOMAS HICKEY. 

No MORE than an hour had elapsed before 
Lloyd and Dennys were* hastening once more 
toward Whitehall Slip, almost quivering with 
excitement at the thought that they were serv- 
ing the colony in a work so important as to 
overshadow anything they might be able to do 
as soldiers. 

It had not been a simple matter to gain per- 
mission of their parents to venture to West 
Point. 

Dennys’ father was not at home, and his 
mother seemed to think the journey up the 
river was much like venturing into the enemy’s 
camp ; but she was finally induced to give a re- 
luctant assent, although predicting that all 


52 


A TORY PLOT. 


manner of evil would follow them during their 
work because of inexperience. 

Lloyd had applied directly to his father for 
permission, and been forced to tell so much as 
they knew of the plot, whereat Master Dacre, 
understanding now" that there was really some- 
thing serious on hand, agreed that his son might 
be absent from home, but at the same time cau- 
tioned him against obeying the commands of 
the conspirators until he was firmly convinced 
no serious harm could result therefrom. 

The fact that General Putnam had detailed 
the soldier, Paul Stubbs, allowing him to put 
off his uniform lest attention should be attracted 
to him, was to the boys greater evidence that 
they were engaged in an important duty than 
anything that had been learned. 

Lloyd, naturally suspicious of every person 
and everything around him, was doubly so at 
this time when they were fairly embarked in 
the enterprise, and as the boy walked toward 


A TORY PLOT. 


53 


the rendezvous he discussed this detail or that 
as if to find proofs that Billings and Giles Smart 
were in some way playing them false. 

“ It doesn’t seem possible that in a matter like 
this, which will bring the leaders to the gallows 
once it is made known, recruits or conspirators, 
whichever you may call them, can be taken on 
without more ceremony than has been shown 
toward you and I,” he said thoughtfully, and 
Dennys was of much the same opinion, there- 
fore there could be no controversy. It stands 
to reason they have need to fear betrayal, and 
yet we are allowed to join them with no guar- 
antee as to our good faith, while at the same 
time it is known that your father has ever been 
a staunch supporter of the cause.” 

All you have said is true, and yet were they 
overparticular as to recruits it might be difii- 
cult to find those willing to undertake such a 
wicked piece of business who could give a 
guarantee.” 


54 


A TORY PLOT. 


“ Yet Master Matthews, the mayor of the city 
as he is, must have sufficient care for his own 
neck, if not his reputation, to make sure spies 
do not join the ranks.” 

It is useless for us to discuss such matter, 
Lloyd, now that we have really begun the work 
and it is too late to draw back. They have 
shown a certain degree of caution in insisting 
that we give some proof of our faithfulness 
to the plot, and I fail to understand that we 
need borrow trouble because more is not re- 
quired. If this vile conspiracy is conducted in 
a slipshod manner, so much the better for us 
who hope to win renown by revealing it.” 

Lloyd was not satisfied to let the matter drop 
at this; but continued to discuss what he 
termed the imprudence of the plotters until 
they were arrived so near Whitehall Slip that 
it was no longer safe to indulge in such con- 
versation. 

Having come to the rendezvous they saw 


A TORY PLOT. 


55 


Caleb Billings apparently busy with some 
work on the boat ; but Master Smart was not 
to be seen. 

In his stead, as it were, talking earnestly 
with Billings, was one in the uniform of Gen- 
i^ral Washington’s Guards, and because of what 
was already known the boys doubted not but 
that he also was a oonspii'ator, even though 
those men whose duty it was to protect the 
commander-in-chief were supposed to be beyond 
reproach. 

The boatman nodded to them familiarly as 
they approached, and when the two boys were 
come close by his side, said by way of intro- 
duction as he motioned his hand toward the 
stranger : 

“This be Thomas Hickey of the Guard, and 
he it is who will give you instructions as to 
what shall be done this day.” 

The soldier was not prepossessing in appear- 
ance; a low-browed, square-jawed fellow, \n hose 


56 


A TORY PLOT. 


face was not calculated to inspire confidence, 
and who wore the air of a bully. 

He surveyed the boys from head to foot, in 
almost an insolent fashion, and when the 
scrutiny was finished to his satisfaction, asked 
their names, age and various other questions, 
much as had Master Smart, to all of whichLloyd 
and Dennys returned proper replies, concealing 
nothing and making no pretence of being eager 
to share in the plot. 

“ You know what is on foot ?” Hickey said 
abruptly, after having gathered as much infor- 
mation as seemed to him necessary concerning 
the lads. 

We do not,” Dennys replied emphatically. 

How is that ?” and Hickey turned toward 
the boatman. I understood they were some- 
what informed.” 

From all which was said I allowed they 
had a smattering of the plan ; leastways that 
was the drift of their talk.” 


A TORY PLOT. 


57 


“ How much do you know Hickey de- 
manded. 

“Nothing, so to speak,” Dennys replied. 
“We heard that gold was to be had for the 
seeking, and understood that the good of the 
colonies demanded a change in the army, which 
was to be brought about in some fashion ; that 
is all.” 

“How do I know that we may trust you 
with this message to West Point?” Hickey 
asked sharply. 

“If you have not decided that question 
already we can hardly be expected to answer 
it for you,” Lloyd said with somewhat of spirit 
in his tone. “ We did not seek the mission ; 
but was told that if we performed it satisfac- 
torily, it would open the way for more im- 
portant matters. It is not our desire to play 
the part of messengers, nor have we any great 
cravings for the privilege of pulling a boat 
from here to AVest Point, therefore this portion 


58 


A TORY PLOT. 


of the business can easily be dropped if our 
appearance is not to your liking.” 

“ The affair in which we are engaged is an 
important one,” Hickey said as if he would 
give the lads to understand that he was one 
high in authority among the conspirators, and 
it is not well that we take as helpers those who 
may play us false.” 

There is no reason why we should be 
accepted,” Dennys said in what he intended to 
be in a careless tone. If there be any hesita- 
tion or difficulty about our joining whatsoever 
you may have in hand, a word is sufficient, 
and we will go away.” 

‘^But we would have two that may safely 
engage, and yet caution is necessary. Abraham 
Howland is known to be a friend to the 
Colonists, and his son might be tempted to 
reveal much to him that would be of injury to 
us in our work.” 

It stands to reason that there must be some 


A TORY PLOT. 


59 


whom you take upon faith, and yet if I, as the 
son of my father, be not pleasing to those who 
have the matter in charge, I can, as we have 
both said, step back, allowing those wlio may 
appear more trustworthy to take my place. 
Neither my comrade nor myself are here to beg 
to be received as recruits. Master Hickey, nor 
do we earnestly desire to make the journey to 
West Point, therefore say yea or nay, and let 
us depart, or go home, as shall be decided 
upon.” 

^^This is not a business in which all the 
details can be settled upon in an hour or even 
a day, as you know.” 

^^How ma}" we, when we understand nothing 
whatever regarding it.” 

^^All that will come in time.” 

‘A^et if there be so much hesitation, perhaps 
it were well we did not venture, for I would 
not join myself with any man who dis- 
trusted me.” 


60 


A TORY PLOT. 


‘‘I believe you can count on the lads, Tom,” 
the boatman said, now making his first attempt 
to join in the conversation. “Master Smart 
was of the opinion that they might be true to 
us, and after this journey it is understood they 
shall go on board the Duchess of Gordon for a 
short visit, therefore I pray you forward 
the mission, for it should be performed ’twixt 
now and daylight.” 

“I am not satisfied with taking as comrades 
those of whom we know nothing, for this is a 
business which may cost us dearly if we neg- 
lect proper precautions,” Hickey said sharply, 
and then turning to the boys, added in a more 
friendly tone, “Here is a letter which you are 
to delivei*, and should there be any tampering 
with the seal it would cost dearly. Go to the 
garrison at West Point and ask to see Jacob 
Chandler, keeping this well hidden meanwhile. 
When he presents himself say you are come from 
Thomas Hickey, and do not display the missive 


A TORY PLOT. 


61 


until he asks for it. Await some reply from 
him, and then return here with all speed.” 

“Have you anything more to say?” Lloyd 
asked. 

“ That is all. Get you gone without delay.” 

“ But when we made ejffort to embark in this 
enterprise, whatever it may be, there was in our 
minds the idea that gold could be won thereby. 
As yet we have seen none of it, and our only 
share in the venture appears to be a deal of 
hard work.” 

“Do you count on being paid before you 
have accomplished anything?” 

“ No, sir, nor are we disposed to carry your 
message without some assurance that it shall 
result to our benefit.” 

“You have already dealt with Master Smart, 
and he must have satisfied you.” 

“ So he did; but now, as I understand the 
matter, you are opposed to our being admitted 
to the enterprise, and it would seem much as if 


65 


A TORY PLOT. 


our journey was in the light of a favor granted 
us. I am not disposed to ask for money before 

p - 

it has been earned ; but at/the sa^rae time there are 
two sides to the bargain, and if you object to 
receiving us as comrades we have good reason 
to object to playing ^he part of your mes- 
sengers.” 

‘‘I shall agree to whatever may be pleasing 
in Master Smart’s sight, and since he has prom- 
ised you are to join us, that portion of the 
business is the same as completed.” 

“In such case we are satisfied,” Lloyd said, 
and without further parley the two boys set off, 
leaving the soldier and the boatman in what 
appeared to be an unfriendly discussion.” 

“Now I am better pleased,” Lloyd said when 
he and Dennys had gained Broad Street. 

“Does it satisfy you that this soldier is 
disposed to view us with suspicion ?” 

Ay, since it shows that the plot is a dan- 
gerous one. When Master Smart agreed 


A TORY PLOT. 


63 


almost without argument that we might share 
in the enterprise, it looked suspicious. This 
soldier of the Guard is a more cautious man, 
and not inclined to trust his neck to a halter of 
our hanging.” 

‘^Yet I would rather thej^ looked upon us 
with favor from the start.” 

^‘If everyone who applied was admitted 
without question, then should I believe that it 
was of no moment, and I say again it pleases 
me better that the soldier should be over- 
prudent rather than careless.” 

Dennys had put in the inside pocket of his 
coat the letter Hickey gave him without glanc- 
ing at the superscription, but now they were so 
far from Whitehall Slip he considered it safe 
to look at the missive, and would have taken it 
out for such purpose but that Lloyd checked 
him. 

“It is not for you to be careless, however 
much others may err in that regard, for if this 


64 


A TORY PLOT. 


plot be as now seems, our lives are in as great 
danger as the conspirators, since once they sus- 
pected us of playing false, our doom would be 
sealed.” 

but counted on looking at the super- 
scription.” 

“That can be done when we are on the 
river, where we know of a surety there are none 
nearby to spy upon us. If, as you have said, 
five hundred in this city be ready to commit 
such a crime as is hinted at, then we may not 
say whom we can trust.” 

“It is of no great importance whether I ever 
see it,” Dennys said with a laugh, “therefore it 
shall be left where it is, so that you may not be 
ruffled. Now about the boat? Where are we 
to get one ?” 

“The man Stubbs said we should embark 
from nearabout Barclay Street, and most like he 
will take good care that a craft of some sort be 
there.” 


A TORY PLOT. 


65 


The boys hastened on up Broad Street to 
Wall, and thence along Broadway until, just 
before arriving at the Oswego Market, Lloyd 
bethought himself that they were making no 
preparations for food during the journey.” 

I will go to my home for such provisions as 
mother may be willing to spare us, and in the 
meantime do you keep on to meet the soldier, 
though I recommend that you be extremely 
careful in talking with him, foi' it may be Master 
Hickey has sent some one to spy upon us.” 

Then Lloyd left his friend as he ran back 
to Queen Street, and Dennys continued on 
right cheerily, understanding quite as well as did 
Lloyd that they were exposed to no little 
clanger while doing this work; but being san- 
guine as to the result. 

At the foot of Barclay Street he saw Stubbs 
lounging near the water front, as if simply 
bent on passing the time, and hauled up near 
at hand was a light skiff. 


66 


A TORY PLOT. 


“ Can I borrow yonder boat, friend ?” Dennys 
asked as he went up to the idler, and Stubbs 
replied carelessly : 

Ay, that you may, if it so be you look well 
after her on your return,” and he added in a 
lower tone, Have you received the mission?” 

We are to deliver a letter to one Jacob 
Chandler in the garrison at West Point.” 

“ Where is it ?” 

In my pocket.” 

^^Go over to the boat, and if it so be you 
can, without too much of a show, lay it in the 
stern-sheets so that in passing I may get a view 
of the superscription.” 

There will be no question about our taking 
the craft ?” 

^^She has been provided for the purpose, and 
you have simply to leave her here on your 
return.” 

Then Dennys did as he was bidden, throw- 
ing his coat down upon the thwart in such 


A TORY PLOT. 


67 


fashion that the letter dropped out, when he 
disposed of it as Stubbs had requested. 

Thanks to this maneuver the soldier readily 
saw all he desired, and at once took his depart- 
ure in a leisurely fashion, as if it was of little 
importance which course he pursued. 

Ten minutes later Lloyd arrived, bringing 
with him a package of such size as gave token 
that they would not be on short rations of food, 
even though the journey be prolonged beyond 
their expectations. 

Of the voyage up the river little need be 
said, because it was without incident. 

The boys were forced to labor industriously 
at the oars, and at intervals they discussed 
the possibility of their being unable to un- 
earth the plot against General Washington ; 
but as a rule they remained silent, each intent 
with thoughts that at times were far from 
pleasant. 

Not until nearly sunrise did they arrive at 


68 


A TORY PLOT. 


tlieir destination, thoroughly wearied with the 
exertions of the night, but since it would be im- 
possible to find the man for whom they sought 
until a later hour, both laid down on the sand 
nearby where the boat had been hauled up and 
slept. 

When they awakened the sun was two hours 
or more high, and they set about making in- 
quiries for Jacob Chandler, finding him half an 
hour later, and then it was that they received 
yet further proof of the desperate nature of the 
enterprise in which Master Smart had thus far 
appeared as the leading spirit. 

When the boys were directed to the soldier 
whose name they had given, and Dennys said 
to him that they were come from Thomas 
Hickey, the man gave evidence of the most 
extreme alarm. 

What has he sent to me for ? Is there not 
danger enough threatening for us but that he 
must make my own even greater ?” 


A TORY PLOT. 


69 


He has sent a letter, and we are to await 
the answer.” 

“ Where is it?” 
my pocket.” 

Walk down the road until you are half a 
mile or more from the camp, and there await 
me,” Chandler said, looking nervously about, as 
if fearing some one might have been listening. 

We shall hope you come soon,” Lloyd said, 
for we must be on the return sufficiently early 
to reach New York by nightfall.” 

“I will come when it may be safe, and take 
no chances, however eager you are to get back. 
It is not of my seeking that Hickey sends mes- 
sengers into the camp when the slightest word 
may put me on the gallows.” 

“We will do as you have bidden, and re- 
main as long as may seem to us safe,” Lloyd 
said as he turned to go, motioning for ‘Dennys 
to follow, and when they were outside the en- 
campment, he whispered, “ This man Chaudler 


70 


A TORY PLOT. 


seems to have a better idea of what may be the 
result of such a plot than does Thomas Hickey, 
and I doubt liot but that he would tell all be 
knew if put under arrest. Did you note how 
alarmed he was ?” 

“I should have been blind had I not done 
so. I am puzzled to understand why these 
plotters should have striven to find followers in 
the army. It seems as if their work might 
have been done with greater safety had they 
confined it to civilians.” 

“ Most likely they need soldiers, if the cap- 
ture or murder of General Washington is the 
object; but that we may not discuss, Dennys, 
and from this out it would be best, we say, 
even among ourselves, as little as possible re- 
garding it, lest some one overhear our words.” 

The boys walked down the road in accord- 
ance with Chandler’s instructions, each moment 
growing more and more uncomfortable in mind, 
for as the crime became more plain to them, so 


A TORY PLOT. 


71 


did the weight of the responsiblities and the 
dangers which might be incurred increase in 
their minds. 

Not until nearly an hour had passed did 
Chandler make his appearance, and then, first 
looking up and down the street to assure him- 
self no one was in sight, he demanded of 
Dennys the letter. 

When it was given him he plunged into the 
thicket, a short distance away, speaking no 
word and remaining there hidden from view 
perhaps half an hour. 

As he returned, looking furtively around as 
if fearing an officer of justice was on his track, 
he said hurriedly to Dennys : 

Tell Thomas Hickey that, so far as may be, 
his instructions shall be followed, but up to 
this moment I have been unable to do any- 
thing. Matters here remain as when I last saw 
him.” 

He repeated this twice in order to make cer- 


72 


A TORY PLOT. 


tain the messengers would remember the words, 
and then hurried away at full speed, as if be- 
lieving the pursuers were already on his track. 

Without comment, but alarmed because of 
the excessive fear displayed by this man, the 
boys returned to the river bank, and began the 
homeward journey, favored now somewhat by 
the current. 

A lumber-laden vessel afforded an oppor- 
tunity for a tow, and making fast astern, con- 
gratulating themselves that the journey would 
in such wise be speedily performed, the boys 
spent the remainder of the day right com- 
fortably, since there was no necessity for labor 
on their part. 

It was not yet six o’clock in the afternoon 
when they pulled the skiff ashore at the foot of 
Barclay Street, and looked around in vain for 
signs of Master Stubbs. 

He may not have been expecting them so 
soon ; possibly it was hardly supposed they . 


A TORY PLOT. 


73 


would bring information of importance, and 
satisfied they should not see him that night, the 
lads set off across the city to make report to 
Caleb Billings. 

When they were come to the corner of 
Nassau and Queen Streets, near the New Dutch 
Church, they were confronted by no less a per- 
sonage than Thomas Hickey himself, who had 
just emerged from a near-by dwelling, clad in 
the garb of a civilian. 

‘‘You have not been overly quick in your 
journey,” he said in a querulous tone, and 
Dennys replied somewhat hotly : 

“To pull from here to West Point is no 
slight task, and but for the fact of getting a. 
tow on the return, we should not have arrived 
until some time to-morrow morning.” 

“Did you see you man?” 

“Ay, and he has sent you this message.” 

Then Dennys repeated what Chandler had 
said, whereat Hickey appeared vexed, giving 


74 


A TORY PLOT. 


vent to several oaths, and while lie was thws 
displaying his ill-temper, the boys would have 
walked away but that he detained them. 

Where are you going ?” he asked in the tone 
of one having authority over them. 

“ Home. It is time we made report to our 
parents, after so long an absence.” 

“ Your work is not yet done.” 

^^We had agreed with Master Smart only to 
go to West Point and return.” 

^‘It makes no difference what may have been 
the conversation between you and him ; I say 
the task is not yet performed, and you will 
come with me to Whitehall Slip, for there is 
business this night in which you must be con- 
cerned.” 

‘‘Must is a harsh word. Master Hickey,^ « 
Lloyd said angrily. “As yet we have only ^ 
played the part of messengers, and know no ‘ 
reason why any man may command us.” 

“You have the same as embarked in the ^ 


A TORY PLOT. 


75 


enterprise, and therefore are bound to obey 
orders which may be given by those in 
authority.” 

‘^And are you one of them ?” Lloyd asked. 

I have equal power with Master Smart, so 
far as conducting the affairs is concerned.” 

“ Then it is to you we will say that we do not 
hold ourselves bounden to any adventure of 
which we are ignorant. When you have made 
us acquainted with the purposes of your enter- 
prise, and we are agreed, then shall be the 
time for you to say we must go here, or there.” 

^‘You had best have a care of your words, 
young sir, or they may lead you into trouble.” 

^^You intend to threaten us?” and now 
Lloyd’s anger was getting the better of him, 
whereat Dennys pressed his arm as he said in a 
low tone, but yet sufficiently loud to be heard 
by Hickey : 

“We have the same as bounden ourselves to 
this business, Lloyd, and if it so be all the par- 


76 


A TORY PLOT. 


ticulars are given us, and we have equal advan- 
tage with the others, then mayhap it is our 
place to receive orders from Master Hickey. 
Let us do as he commands. Where would you 
have us go, sir?” 

‘‘To Whitehall Slip, and, perchance, on 
board the Duchess of Gordon.” 

“We will accompany you; but with the 
understanding that on this night all shall be 
made plain to us, else we do hold it our privilege 
to retreat.” 

“ You will know as much as may suffice ; but 
once having heard it, there is no longer time to 
go backward, for then are you with us, body 
and soul.” 


A TORY PLOT. 


77 


CHAPTER IV. 

THE DUCHESS OF GORDOH. 

The boys were not feeling well content in 
mind when they followed Thomas Hickey 
down Nassau Street to Broad, and thence to the 
Slip. 

The tone in which he had spoken and the 
bearing he now attempted tow^ard them, Avas 
that of a master, and but for the end to be 
attained Lloyd would have risen in revolt 
against this newly assumed authority, for it 
was not at all to his liking to be held thus in 
command by such a man as the soldier ap- 
peared to be. 

Perhaps he might have mutinied then and 
there regardless of all that was to be gained, 


78 


A TORY PLOT. 


but for Denny’s warning grasp upon bis arm, 
and even as he obeyed the roughly spoken com- 
mands there was that on his face vs hich told 
how deeply such discourteous treatment cut 
him. 

Mayhap it was fortunate that Hickey did not 
speak during such time as was occupied in 
walking from the New Dutch Church to 
Whitehall Slip, where was found Caleb Bill- 
ings, who appeared to be a fixture in that par- 
ticular locality for the benefit of the conspirators. 

The boatman greeted the boys in a friendly 
fashion when they were come, asked concerning 
the journey, whether it had been one of ex- 
treme labor, and if they were fatigued, whereat 
Hickey cried sharply : 

“ You will attend to your own affairs. Master 
Billings. It concerns you not if these lads have 
made a pleasure trip or performed labor. Has 
Master Smart been here within an hour ?” 

Look you. Master Hickey,” the boatman 


A TORY PLOT. 


79 


said angrily. I am not given to taking 
quietly such words as of late days you choose to 
bestow upon me. Decent treatment is all I ask, 
and that I would have were you twice the man 
you think yourself to be. With a civil tongue 
in your head we shall continue on in this ad- 
venture without much friction ; but indulge a 
bit more in such taking on of authority, and we 
will have trouble together.” 

^‘So you have grown insubordinate before the 
work is well begun,” the soldier cried angrily. 

^^No man can be in insubordination against 
his equals, and I consider my part in this ad- 
venture to be as great as yours, Thomas 
Hickey, else would I abandon it.” 

Will you tell me whether Master Smart has 
been here, or must I go elsewhere to inquire ?” 

“He was here within the hour and left orders 
for you to wait. Take ray advice and occupy 
the time in keeping your tongue quiet, for the 
good of your body,” Billings said angrily, and 


80 


A TORY PLOT. 


then turning to the boys he repeated his ques- 
tions as to their journey, whereupon Dennys 
gave him a brief account of what they had 
done; but without repeating the message sent 
by Chandler. 

During such time as they were talking 
Hickey moved a short distance away, pacing to 
and fro as if it was beneath his dignity to be 
seen in conversation with the boatman and the 
lads, and Lloyd, quite as thoroughly disgruntled 
as was Billings, asked : 

In this enterprise of yours, whatever it may 
be, is this soldier much in authority ?” 

“Bless your soul, lad, he is no higher than I, 
or you, if you join us ; but takes upon himself 
such lofty airs as if believing it was to his ad- 
vantage. An ignorant man is dangerous in 
whatever he undertakes, and I who say it am 
ignorant myself, although the Lord has given 
me sufficient common sense to know when I 
make of myself an unpleasant spectacle.” 


A TORY PLOT. 


81 


^‘But Hickey has given us direct orders, and 
insists that if we go into this adventure we 
shall be under his command.” 

^‘Then I say to you, lads, that Hickey has 
lied, and will say so to him if he repeats it. 
With two or three like him, all those who are 
favorable to the enterprise may drop away, 
leaving us alone.” 

He commanded that we come here ; can 
you say for what purpose. Master Billings ?” 

It is all in a line with what was said to you 
yesterday by one of the governor’s household. 
As I understand it, orders were given that you 
should be taken to the Duchess of Gordon, if it 
so be you returned safely from the journey and 
were yet of the mind to join us.” 

‘‘Join you in what?” Dennys asked. “It is 
time we understood the nature of this thing if 
we are asked to go here and there blindly, 
putting ourselves under the control of such as 
Thomas Hickey.” 


82 


A TORY PLOT. 


'‘True for you, lad, true for you; yet I may 
not explain. This night, if it so be you go on 
board the Duchess of Gordon, and I see no rea- 
son why you should hesitate, all will be made 
plain. Then it may be you will waver regard- 
ing the venture; but I say that it must succeed 
because of the numbers engaged therein, and 
once the work has been performed according to 
the plans laid down by no less a personage than 
Governor Tryon himself, we shall stand high 
in the favor of his majesty, which I venture to 
say is better than being looked upon with favor 
by the leaders of the ragamuffin army.” 

“Then this is a plot against General Wash- 
ington ?” Lloyd' incautiously said, whereat the 
boatman closed his mouth like an oyster and 
refused to speak further, replying only to such 
questions as the boys asked. 

“You will hear all on board the Duchess of 
Gordon, and it is not for me to make explana- 
tions.” 


A TORY PLOT. 


83 


Hickey paid no further attention to these mes- 
sengers so lately returned from West Point; 
but continued pacing to and fro in a manner 
which was well calculated to excite the sus- 
picions of any who might have gotten an ink- 
ling of the plot, until Master Giles Smart ap- 
peared, pulling up to the land in a boat rowed 
by eight British sailors. 

^Wou have relumed in fair season, young 
sirs,” he said in a kmdly tone, heeding not the 
fact that Hickey pressed forward as if to gain 
speech with him before he could address the 
lads. 

‘^AVe have come so soon as might be,” 
Dennys replied courteously. It was not play 
to row from here to West Point; but a lumber- 
laden schooner took our towline coming down, 
thereby saving us much time.” 

^^Aud you saw the man to whom you were 
sent ?” 

^Wes, sir, and received in return a message. 


84 


A TORY PLOT. 


which we have already told to Master Hickey 
according to his commands,” Lloyd replied. 

‘‘We were further ordered to follow him here, 
and informed that if we embarked in the en- 
terprise we should be subject to his instruc- 
tions.” 

“That which I said I will explain,” and 
Hickey would have urged Master Smart aside 
but that gentleman refused to move, as he said 
to the boys : 

“Commands and orders must be given in 
such work as we propose to engage in ; but I 
assure you that no task shall be laid upon any 
man save in the spirit of friendliness. Master 
Hickey is in a position to be of great service, 
and at a later day you can judge for yourselves 
why it is so. It is understood, I believe, be- 
tween us that you are to go on board the ship 
with me?” 

“We are willing to do so, sir,” Lloyd re- 
plied, “providing we may know wdl what is 


A TORY PLOT. 


85 


the character of the work in which we are to be 
engaged.” 

^^All shall be explained to you in due time, 
and 1 beg that differences of opinion shall not 
arise among those who are aiming toward a 
common purpose. The worthy Caleb Billings 
and our good Master Hickey are inclined to 
measure words which are of no moment ; but 
mayhap serve to mar the harmony of our work. 
All that will be arranged in due season and in 
proper order, therefore let it not disturb you.” 

Having said this and with the air of one who 
would soothe any feelings which may have 
been ruffled, Master Smart turned in the man- 
ner of a diplomat to the impatient soldier, and 
in Avords which could not be overheard evi- 
dently spoke him as fairly as he did the boys. 

When perhaps ten minutes had elapsed, dur- 
ing which time the boat with its crew re- 
mained at the landing ready to push off. Mas- 
ter Smart engaged the soldier in conversation. 


86 


A TORY PLOT. 


and then, turning again to the boys, he 
said : 

'‘If it please you to do as I have proposed, 
we will now embark.” 

It was nightfall, and by this venturing on 
board the armed ship the amateur spies would 
be prevented from reaching their homes until 
perhaps the following morning; but yet they 
made no hesitation, for nowit seemed had come 
the time when they might learn that which it 
w^as most important should be known, and 
Lloyd stepped into the boat, immediately fol- 
lowed by Dennys, who most earnestly desired 
to speak a word in private with him, but dared 
not, because no such conversation could be in- 
dulged in while so many were around. 

Much to the satisfaction of both the lads, 
they observed that Thomas Hickey remained 
on shore, and Master Smart did not join them 
until he had evidently soothed the ruffled 
feathers of this overbearing soldier and per- 


A TORY PLOT. 


87 


formed the same office for the boatman, leav- 
ing the two standing in apparent friendliness 
side by side as he stepped into the boat. 

Then the sailors pushed off, and in the 
gloom none could have recognized them once 
they were in the stream. 

There was in Dennys’ mind the disquieting 
thought that now were they wholly in the 
power of the conspirators, and at the least in- 
cautious word or move from them death might, 
and probably would, follow. 

It was not pleasant to dwell upon such facts ; 
but yet the lads knew when they made the 
proposition to General Putnam that exceeding 
great danger was to be incurred, and if either 
felt timorous at this time he forced it down as 
best he might in the effort to appear calm and 
unconcerned, as became those who would plot 
against the welfare of the country. 

During the time occupied in rowing from 
Whitehall Slip to the ship. Master Smart spoke 


88 


A TORY PLOT. 


with the lads on indifferent topics, as if there 
was in his mind no more than the general gossip 
of the day ; but through it all he appeared ex- 
ceedingly friendly, and gave the boys to under- 
stand that he was pleasured because they would 
join in the enterprise which as yet he had not 
proposed. Very soon the boat was made fast 
alongside the Duchess of Gordon. Lloyd and 
Dennys went up the ladder in compliance with 
Master Smart’s gesture, and by him were con- 
ducted immediately to the after-cabin where 
they found, seated at a table which was be- 
strewn with papers, the gentleman whom they 
had seen exercising the rights of the colony of 
Massachusetts by virtue of his permission from 
the king. 

Both had observed Governor Try on many 
times as he drove through the city, and there 
was little need Master Smart should announce 
in loud tones his excellency, the governor. 

The boys made their best bow, which was 


A TORY PLOT. 


89 


answered by the king’s official with a careless 
nod, as he asked of Master Smart : 

^‘Who be these, Giles, and why have you 
brought them here 

One is the son of that Abraham Howland 
of whom your excellency has heard, and the 
other is young Dacre, whose father is a mer- 
chant in the city. Learning that the king’s gold 
is to be gained by embarking in a certain enter- 
prise they have presented themselves, and al- 
ready performed a certai n service. It was to their 
minds that some assurance should be given as to 
the reward which might come when the work was 
done. I ventured to propose Master Matthews, 
the mayor ; but afterward thought best to 
bring them direct to you.” 

What would they have of me?” 

Giles Smart looked at the boys as if to say 
they should answer the question, and the two 
lads exchanged glances, after which Lloyd said 
courteously : 


90 


A TORY PLOT. 


‘‘We partly promised ourselves au adventure 
of which as yet we know but little, and, as 
Master Smart has been so kind as to say, have 
already performed a certain work, which in it- 
self was nothing. It matters not who our 
fathers may be, for even though we are but 
boys Dennys and I feel equal to the labor of 
men. Now we are minded to do that which 
will win for us renown, perchance, the favor of 
those high in authority, it may be, and some- 
what of gold ; but first, with all due respect, 
your excellency, we would know what it is we 
shall be called upon to do.” 

“Why could you not have explained all this 
to them, Giles?” the governor said, hardly 
glancing at the lads. 

“ Because, your excellency, it seemed to me 
that they demanded some assurance from one 
higher in authority than I.” 

‘‘All they desire to know can be told by you, 
and I will say this for their satisfaction, if it 


A TORY PLOT. 


91 


must be : That whatever you may tell them I 
stand to, and since money appears to be the 
bait which has drawn them on, let sufficient be 
given them as assurance of more to follow.” 

Having said this the governor turned once 
more to the papers in front of him, as if inti- 
mating that the interview was at an end, and 
Master Smart motioned for the boys to follow 
him on deck. 

^^His excellency is overrun with business; 
matters of greatest importance to the state now, 
since those of the colonies are rising in rebellion 
against the commands of our gracious king, and 
it is as well that I explain to you what seems 
necessary should be made known.” 

He paused as if for reply, and Lloyd said : 

Since we have seen him, and know that he 
guarantees your word, all is well. Surely you 
cannot blame us, Master Smart, for wishing to 
know what might be expected of us. Those 
who rush in blindfold on an adventure may 


92 


A TORY PLOT. 


not be relied upon when the time of danger 
comes.” 

“It is bravely said, lad, and pleases me bet- 
ter than if you were ready to pledge yourselves 
ignorantly. Come to my cabin, which, although 
small, will afford us sufficient accommodation 
for a private conversation.” 

Having thus spoken he led the way to the 
second cabin, and there entered a small berth, 
in which were two bunks, a couple of stools, 
and a desk. 

Here, summoning a servant, he ordered that 
refreshments be brought, and explained his rea- 
son for doing so by saying : 

“After the labor which you lads have per- 
formed, I doubt not but that something in the 
way of food will be welcome. Eat heartily, 
and while you are satisfying both hunger and 
thirst, it shall be my task to make plain that 
which is for the benefit of this colony, and to 
the pleasure of his majesty, the king.” 


A TORY PLOT. 


93 


Some 3old meat, ale and bread were brought, 
whereupon the boys set about making as 
hearty a meal as if they had been in the house 
of a friend, and while they ate Master Smart, 
with many a word of explanation as to why 
this plot should be shared in by those who 
loved their homes, made plain the crime pro- 
posed by Governor William Tryon, who, as 
he then declared, was aided and abetted by no 
less than the mayor of the city. 

To attempt to give all this in his words 
would require much too long in the telling, 
because of the many arguments he used to show 
why two lads like Lloyd and Dennys should 
embark in the venture on account of their 
loyalty to the colony; but in substance the 
wickedness he would have them take part in 
was something like this : 

Pt was proposed, and he stated that no less 
than six hundred had already been enlisted in 
the plot, that upon the arrival of the British 


94 


A TORY PLOT. 


forces General Washington should be made a 
prisoner and delivered to Sir William Howe. 

This was what the boys expected to hear ; yet 
at the same time they found it difficult to pre- 
serve a calm demeanor while Master Smaii) un- 
raveled the diabolical plan. 

He went into details by explaining that at 
the moment General Washington’s person was 
seized the magazine would be blown up, for there 
were those in the army in a position to com- 
pass such an act who had already agreed to 
join the conspiracy, and during the confusion 
the plotters should secure the entrances to the 
town, capture such of the general officers as 
might readily be taken, and thus at one blow 
have possession, not only of the city, but the 
chief strength of the force. 

^^Once General Washington and certain 
prominent officers are in our power,” Master 
Smart said, lingering long over the words like 
one who rolls a sweet morsel under his tongue. 


A TORY PLOT._ 


95 


have the troops at our command, and 
there is no doubt but that if the plans be laid 
properly and carried out faithfully, the Conti- 
nentals will surrender within an hour after the 
magazine has been destroyed. In fact there 
will be nothing else left for them to do, and 
by thus joining the venture, which cannot 
miscarry, you lads, may win such gratitude 
from the king as will be the making of your 
fortunes. By one stroke you can advance to 
higher stations than would fall to your lot did 
you serve the ragamuffin Continentals a long 
lifetime, even should they hold together. It 
is positive, however, that these handfuls of 
imitation soldiers cannot maintain their own 
against his majesty’s troops, and at the best 
this rebellion must be crushed within a year. 
By joining us you have everything to gain and 
nothing to lose, while the reverse must be the 
case should you hold to the mistaken belief of 
your fathers.” 


96 


A TORY PLOT. 


It may well be supposed that a man like 
Master Smart could paint in the most favorable 
colors this wondrously wicked plot, else he 
would not have been trusted by Governor 
Tryon to raise recruits, and had the boys 
wavered in their purpose, it is more than likely 
his specious words would have been be- 
lieved. 

However, determined as they were to pre- 
tend an adherence to the scheme, in order that 
they might frustrate the design, it can readily 
be understood that they gave willing ear to all 
he said, and when he was done appeared ready 
to engage in the enterprise. 

‘Ht strikes you well?” he asked. ‘^And it 
surely should, for he who sets out to win a for- 
tune where the odds are in his favor is already 
assured of gaining the purpose.” 

‘‘There is little in it which we had not 
imagined from what had been heard,” Lloyd 
said, careful now lest he betray himself, for his 


A TORY PLOT. 


97 


head was in a whirl because of the wickedness 
which would be done and the knowledge of the 
risk they were running in thus venturing to 
expose the plot. 

Should they be suspected, after having em- 
barked in the scheme, wherein were, as Master 
Smart had said, no less than six hundred 
engaged, their lives would pay the forfeit 
without the formality of a trial ; and the 
slightest slip of the tongue would prove their 
undoing. 

‘‘Then we may count on you as being with 
us, since I promise in the name of his excel- 
lency, Governor Tryon, that you shall be richly 
rewarded for doing whatever part may be 
assigned you ?” 

“You may count us with you,” Lloyd said 
gravely. 

“Then you will have no hesitation in swear- 
ing not to reveal any word which I spoke. This 
oath should have been required of you before 


98 


A TORY PLOT. 


any disclosure was made ; but I heeded not the 
precaution, believing you to be young gentle- 
men who would hold to what was implied.’’ 

The boys had not expected to make solemn 
oath to keep secret what had been divulged ; 
but yet to refuse now would be to betray them- 
selves, and there was no possible way out of 
what appeared to be a difficulty save by doing 
as the governor’s tool requested. 

“We will give our oaths,” Dennys said, and 
straightway Master Smart administered in the 
most solemn fashion this obligation which 
bound them to strenuous secrecy and faithful 
obedience to the commands of those who had 
charge of the nefarious business. 

They had long since cease to eat, and once 
this .solemn pledge of their words had been 
given, Lloyd suggested that now it was time 
for them to return to their homes. 

“We have been absent since yesterday noon,” 
he said, “ and can hardly hope to be with our 


A TORY PLOT. 


99 


parents before midnight even though we start 
now.” 

“Why should you go to-night?” Master 
Smart asked as if in surprise. 

“ Because it was expected we would return 
some time to-day, and may cause us trouble in 
the answering if we are longer delayed.” 

“ Wait you here until I learn his excellency’s 
pleasure,” Master Smart said as he rose to his 
feet, and on leaving the room the boys were 
startled by hearing the click of the key in the 
lock. 

“He has made us prisoners,” Dennys said in 
alarm, and Lloyd, none the less excited, but 
holding himself better in control, replied 
quietly : 

“ Perhaps after having solemnly pledged 
ourselves to the enterprise, he has the right; 
but it appears to me much as if such treatment 
was ungenerous.” 

This was said with the knowledge that there 


100 


A TORY PLOT. 


might be those who were listening to every 
word, and the boys gazed at each other in 
anxiety, questioning by their eyes if danger 
might not menace even at this 
they had agreed to join the plot. 

It seemed strange that they, being on the 
ship, unable to leave it without permission, 
should be thus confined in narrow quarters, for 
Master Smart had simply gone to consult with 
Governor Try on. 

Yet why had all this matter been explained 
to them, if there was any question as to their 
fidelity ? 

This thought was in the minds of both the 
boys, and after a pause of a few seconds Dennys 
whispered, drawing so near his comrade that 
the words could not by any chance have been 
heard, even though the tiny cabin had another 
occupant : 

'‘We need have no fear, Lloyd, else he had 
not told us all he did. It is but a precaution. 



A TORY PLOT. 


101 


and in such work as they are engaged it is well 
that they suspect everyone.” 

Yet I like not this treatment, and have no 
care as to who may hear me,” Lloyd said, 
speaking stoutly, regardless of the possibility 
that his words would be overheard. If we 
can be trusted with the secret, we surely may 
be allowed our liberty, else why did they con- 
fide in us ?” 

Dennys, fearful lest some one had been 
stationed outside to listen to their conversation, 
made nervous gestures to his comrade, signify- 
ing that he remain quiet; but Lloyd gave no 
heed as he continued to cry out against such 
treachery,” as he called it, until the turning of 
the key in the lock told of the coming of a 
visitor. 

It was Master Smart who appeared in the 
doorway, and no one could be more friendly 
than he, as he said courteously : 

I have to implore your pardon for my seem- 


102 


A TORY PLOT. 


ingto lack confidence. I made you prisoners 
simply that you might not be seen by certain 
persons on board, for there are here some 
citizens of New York who would be greatly 
alarmed had you suddenly opened the door as 
they passed, You may well fancy how dan- 
gerous is this enterprise, and those who engage 
in it must have a care for their safety.’’ 


A TORY PLOT. 


103 


CHAPTER V. 

PAUL STUBBS. 

When Master Smart mentioned the fact that 
there were several citizens of New York on 
board who would not be pleased at being seen, 
both the boys understood that it might be much 
to the advantage of the leaders in the American 
cause if these traitors could be known; but 
just at that moment it was impossible for them 
to do anything toward making such a discovery. 

Master Smart had locked them into his cabin 
lest they should inadvertently come upon these 
traitorous ones, and it was not likely he would 
now be willing they should look about in search 
for their fellow conspirators. 

However angry Lloyd might be because they 


104 


A TORY PLOT. 


were temporarily made prisoners, he could 
n:)t refuse to accept the implied apology in 
Master Smart’s words, and thus, apparently, 
were friendly feelings once more restored. 

Judging from the precautions taken when 
they were conducted from this cabin into the 
saloon, the boys believed there were many in- 
fluential citizens on board, otherwise Master 
Smart would not have been so careful to pre- 
vent them from seeing or being seen. 

He led them out through the forward en- 
trance of the second saloon, sending word in 
advance by one of the sailors who had apparently ! 
been stationed near the door of his room, and 
thanks to such precautions, so the boys believed, 
the decks were apparently clear when they 
marched into the outer air. 

Outside the crew of the ship there was but 
one person to be seen, and both Lloyd and 
Dennys recognized him as Master Gilbert 
Forbes, the gunsmith on Broadway, who had 


A TORY PLOT. 


105 


ever been noted for his devotion to the cause 
of liberty. 

That he knew the lads, or at least one of 
them, was certain from his start of surprise on 
seeing them, and positive it is that his astonish- 
ment could not have been greater than that 
experienced by Lloyd and Dennys, for this man, 
who had enjoyed the reputation of being a 
thorough patriot, could have come on board the 
Duchess of Gordon only to plot against the wel- 
fare of the colony, and the life of the com- 
mander-in-chief. 

Master Smart observed that the boys recog- 
nized the gunsmith, saying with a laugh : 

I did not intend you should see any of our 
visitors, but since you have met one, and evi- 
dently know him, it is good proof, so far as you 
are concerned, that there be many among us 
who are of weight in the city ; that we need 
not enlist lads save there is work which they 
mayhap can do better than their elders.” 


106 


A TORY PLOT. 


“And it is for such reason that you have 
allowed us to join in the venture?” Lloyd said. 

“ Ay, for surely you must understand that we 
had a motive, otherwise why would we admit 
those so young as you ?” 

“But what is the especial task which we 
seem fitted to perform, according to your 
ideas ?” 

“ Much in the same line as that you have 
already done. During the next week we would 
send here and there on important missions, and 
lads like you will be less likely to excite sus- 
picion than if such a one as Master Forbes or 
Master Matthews were to be journeying abroad 
in hot haste.” 

“ Is the time so near at hand ?” Dennys asked. 

“It cannot long be delayed, since the blow 
must be struck on or near the time of the 
arrival of the king’s forces, if we would be able 
to hold our advantage.” 

During this conversation they were proceed- 


A TORY PLOT. 


107 


ing from the companionway of the second cabin 
to the rail, and having arrived there near the 
ladder, at the foot of which was in waiting a 
boat. Master Smart halted. 

‘‘It would seem that we are to go ashore 
now ?” Dennys said with a laugh which had in 
it little of mirth. 

“Ay, there is no reason why you should 
linger, and as you have already said, it may be 
necessary to report to your parents. We would 
not do anything that might excite suspicion, 
and there is no need for you to remain here 
after having embarked in the enterprise.” 

“ Then our services are inquired no more ?” 

“On the contrary we shall expect a great 
deal of you during the next eight or ten days, 
and that there may be no delay you will spend 
so much of your time as may be possible in the 
company of Caleb Billings, the boatman.” 

“ Beginning to-morrow morning ?” Lloyd 
asked. 


108 


A TORY PLOT. 


‘^Save when you may have been sent on a 
mission, we expect you will remain within call 
of him during all the hours of daylight, and as 
you perform the work with which we intrust 
you, so shall be the reward w^hen our task shall 
have come to an end. Bear well in mind that 
the king will not forget those who are faithful 
to him, and what you accomplish within the 
next few days may determine all the remainder 
of your lives.” 

It surely would if we were taken in custody 
on the charge of conspiring against the liberty 
and life of General Washington,” Lloyd sug- 
gested, and Master Smart said as if the idea was 
disagreeable to him: 

“Put such fears far from your mind, for there 
is no danger they will be realized so long as 
you remain true to the undertaking.” 

“ That is to say,” Lloyd answered with a faint 
smile, “if all others are equally true; but 
among six hundred there may be some who are 


A TORY PLOT. 


109 


cowardly, like UDto the one we met at West 
Point, in which case danger menaces all.” 

“ AVe have been careful in our selection, and 
I have the utmost confidence in every person 
who has thus far agreed to the venture ; but 
why did you speak of the man to whom you 
were sent?” 

Because he was in dire distress lest some 
one should suspect why we had come, and 
acted in every way other than like a brave man.” 

You can well imagine that one in his posi- 
tion should be apprehensive, looking in every 
quarter for danger, even though there may be 
no reason for fear. He and Thomas Hickey 
are not alone among the number of our adher- 
ents who are at present in the Continental 
Army.” 

At this moment there was a movement aft as 
if a number of persons were ascending the com- 
panionway from the after-cabin, and Master 
Smart said hurriedly : 


110 


A TORY PLOT. 


“Here is the boat which will take you back 
to the city, and there is no reason for farther 
delay. I shall be on shore shortly after day- 
light, and will hold further converse with you.” 

There was no excuse for loitering, even 
though the boys had been minded to remain 
longer, which they were not, and a few moments 
later both were in the stern sheets of the eight- 
oared gig, being rowed rapidly toward the 
Battery. 

As a matter of course they did not dare to 
indulge in conversation during this voyage, and 
on landing Caleb Billings met them, grasping 
each by the hand warmly as he asked: 

“ Were you satisfied with your visit?” 

“ So far as one may be who learns how much 
danger menaces him.” 

“ That is less than you now believe,” the 
boatman replied confidently. “ ’Twixt now and 
this day week our numbers will be doubled, if 
not trebled, and with such a following there 


A TORY PLOT. 


Ill 


can be no hinderance to the plans. I am think- 
ing you have need to get home quickly, else 
the watch may make disagreeable inquiries, for 
it is now well on to nine o’clock.” 

“We have no desire to loiter on the way,” 
Dennys said with a laugh, which was checked 
an instant later as Thomas Hickey, gloomy, 
and with an air of undue importance, approached 
them. 

“ I shall see you to-morrow morning ?” Caleb 
Billings said interrogatively, and Lloyd replied : 

“ Of a surety. We have promised to be here 
as soon after daylight as may be possible.” 

“ Where are you going now ?” Hickey asked 
in the tone of one who has the right to demand 
an answer, and Dennys, fearing lest Lloyd 
should speak in temperately, said quickly : 

“ To our homes, and surely we have need of 
rest, inasmuch as we rowed steadily every hour 
of last night.” 

“ See to it that you are at your stations in 


112 


A TORY PLOT. 


the morning. It is reasonable to suppose that 
all has been explained since you went on board 
tlie ship, and by this time you can understand 
how much depends upon each person doing his 
full duty.” 

“ It needs not you to remind us,” Lloyd re- 
plied angrily. In all that we heard on board 
the Duchess of Gordon no mention was made 
of your being in command over those who 
might embark in the adventure, otherwise had 
we remained aloof.” 

‘^It is well that you guard your tongue, 
young sir, both as to keeping secrets and reply- 
ing to your elders, for impudence and sincerity 
of purpose go not hand in hand.” 

Dennys pressed his companion’s arm once 
more as a sign that he should keep a check 
upon his temper, for no good might come of 
defying this man who took upon himself so 
much authority ; but Lloyd was not to be kept 
silent, and said, as the two moved quickly away : 


A TORY PLOT. 


113 


“ When we have need of advice, Master 
Hickey, and are willing to come to you for it, 
then will be the time you may give it us ; but 
at present we have received all that is needed 
from those who are seemingly high in author- 
ity.” 

As he said this Lloyd hurried away as if 
fearing the soldier might follow, and when they 
were some considerable distance from the slip, 
Dennys expostulated with his comrade for such 
free speaking. 

“ It is not for us to make enemies just at this 
time,” he said quietly but firmly. We are 
like to see all of danger that we may desire 
without breeding enemies among those who are 
in the plot. I distrust that fellow, Hickey, and 
believe he would, to gratify his own passions, 
do one an injury, even though by such act he 
imperiled his secret and his life.”. 

“ Providing I was engaged in this crime for 
the purpose of carrying it out to the end, I 


114 


A TORY PLOT. 


would not consort with such as he, neither 
should I allow him to lord it over me.” 

“ But surely in order to accomplish our ends 
you can overlook much that he says, for if this 
work be continued the gallows will be the spot 
on which he quits this life.” 

If there be six hundred engaged in the plot, 
he will not lack for companions at such a time.” 

I have no doubt ” 

Dennys ceased speaking very suddenly as a 
man stepped out from amid the gloom of the 
alleyway directly in front of them, thereby 
causing both to come to a halt in order to avoid 
a collision. 

“You should be more careful of your move- 
ments, sir, else are you like to receive an injury,” 
Lloyd said, as with difficulty he checked his 
headway in time to save coming into contact 
with the stranger, and an instant later he recog- 
nized, even in the darkness, the soldier from 
General Putnam’s headquarters — Paul Stubbs, 


A TORY PLOT. 


115 


I failed to meet you when you came 
down the river; but arrived at Whitehall Slip 
just as Governor Tryon’s emissary was conduct- 
ing you down the harbor, therefore I waited, 
for surely there must be news of some sort.” 

The three had come to a halt as Stubbs be- 
gan speaking, and Dennys replied in a tone 
which was incautiously loud : 

We have learned very much of what we set 
about, although as yet can name but few who 
are engaged in the plot.” 

Then he repeated that which had been told 
them by Master Smart, and when he was come 
to an end of the recital, the soldier, who gave 
evidence of being thoroughly astonished, as 
well as horrified, exclaimed -* 

It hardly seems possible any who love the 
Colonies could embark in such a fiendish plot.” 

Surely the soldier, Thomas Hickey, must 
have professed to be true to the Cause, else he 
would not be one of General Washington’s 


116 


A TORY PLOT. 


Guards, and he would make himself to appear 
as if having much authority in the matter,” 
Lloyd said. We saw on board the Duchess of 
Gordon Master Gilbert Forbes, the gunsmith, 
and understood that he was among the conspir- 
ators ; then there is a soldier, named Chandler, 
at West Point, who has evidently agreed to aid 
in the crime. It is true. Master Stubbs, there 
be many in this city whom you believe devoted 
to the colony that stand ready to commit this 
great wickedness.” 

It is strange that two lads like you should 
have been the first to give the alarm, and I 
would that I stood in your shoes when, the 
plotters having been foiled, you are rewarded.” 

It would seem as if our work was not yet 
done,” Dennys said gravely, “and before the 
end shall come we may not be in condition to 
receive reward or hear words of praise.” 

“ Nay, nay, my lad, you must not let your 
fears get the better of you. So far have you 


A TORY PLOT. 


117 


two done bravely, and I make no question but 
that the work will be continued in equally good 
fashion until the criminals are made prisoners. 
I go now to report, and if it so be the general 
would give instructions, will come before the 
morning to your homes.” 

Then he inquired particularly where each of 
the boys lived, and having gained such in- 
formation, hastened up King Street, while they 
continued on to Crown. 

The meeting with this friend had done much 
toward arousing Dennys from the gloomy fore- 
bodings which began to creep over him as he 
left the Duchess of Gordon, and for the moment 
the adventure in which they had embarked 
appeared less dangerous than at any time since 
having had speech with General Putnam. 

If all this is to be done within a week or 
ten days, as Master Smart suggested, it would 
surely seem as if we might play our part well, 
however timorous we are grown,” he said to 


118 


A TORY PLOT. 


Lloyd, aud the words had been hardly more 
than uttered when both boys were seized 
roughly by the shoulders. 

Worn with much labor, and excited by all 
that had been said to them, they were in a 
highly nervous condition at thus being unex- 
pectedly and unceremoniously halted, and in- 
voluntarily gave vent to a cry of alarm. 

Whatsoever of fear may have come into their 
hearts with this sudden interruption, was as 
nothing compared with what they felt on turn- 
ing and seeing Thomas Hickey looking dowm 
upon them with menace in every movement. 

^^So!” he exclaimed. ‘T was not at fault 
when I questioned whether we might be wise 
in allowing you to join us without other guar- 
antee than your words. It is two lads who 
propose in their ignorance to overthrow the 
plans of their elders and betters, is it 

Thus suddenly and unexpectedly had come 
the moment of greatest danger for these boys 



Smart and Lloyd were seized roughly by the shoulders.— Page 118. 











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A TORY PLOT. 


119 


who voluntarily took upon themselves the part 
of spies. 

Both realized at the instant all that might be 
the result of this fellow’s charges against them, 
and, perchance had he heard their conversation 
with Stubbs, any hesitation on their part would 
make of his suspicions a certainty. 

As a matter of course if he knew what had 
passed between them and the soldier from 
General Putnam’s headquarters, then all was 
lost indeed, and they might look for little 
mercy ; but Lloyd had sufficient self-possession 
to make at least one attempt toward throwing 
this fellow off the scent. 

^^Your words are as objectionable now as 
they were before we went on board the Duchess 
of Gordon,” he said with an assumption of 
anger which covered his fear for the time being. 

“ I can well fancy that when two spies are 
overtaken in their dirty work, the words of 
honest men are unpleasant to their ears.” 


120 


A TORY PLOT. 


‘^I know not \Yliom you may call spies,” 
Lloyd said bravely, but surely we who have 
embarked in the adventure are honest as com- 
pared to you who have foresworn yourself, 
since you must have taken the oath to the 
colonies when you joined the Continental 
army.” 

“ What I may or may not have done is of 
little importance to you, now that you are con- 
victed of having joined us in order to betray 
our purpose.” 

What right have you to say that ?” Dennys 
asked, gathering courage. 

“ Who was that man that just left you ?” 
friend of ours. Surely we do not give 
up the right to speak with an acquaintance on 
the street? And even though we had, you 
have no authority to question us.” 

“ The one who just left you is a private on 
duty at General Putnam’s headquarters — I fail 
to remember his name at the moment. He 


A TORY PLOT. 


121 


met you for the sake of learning all that you 
heard on board the ship.” 

That is an assertion which you are making 
without any foundation. Our friend is a sol- 
dier, although where he may be stationed I can- 
not say; but we knew him before we were so 
unfortunate as to fall into your company.” 

‘‘Do all the soldiers of your acquaintance 
move about without uniforms ?” 

“ It would seem so, since both you and he 
are in civilian’s garb.” 

“ There is no reason why I should bandy 
words with you longer,” Hickey cried in a 
rage. “ It is positive you have joined this 
movement simply for the purpose of playing 
the part of spies ; but, fortunately, my dis- 
trust has been the means, of saving the lives 
perchance of many good men. You will come 
with me, and at the least show of resistance, 
it is my intention to kill rather than take the 
chances of your escape.” 


122 


A TORY PLOT. 


Indeed we shall do nothing of the kind,” 
Lloyd cried loudly, hoping his voice might be 
heard by some belated pedestrian, or perhaps 
by the members of the watch. We have but 
just come from an interview with your betters, 
and are not minded to take orders from you, 
since Master Smart himself declared you were 
without authority.” 

Any man is in authority who discovers such 
as you. It is to be a choice between death 
and obeying my commands. I shall not hesi- 
tate to kill, for by so doing I am but saving my 
own life.” 

Although the boys did their best to appear 
calm and to simulate anger rather than fear, 
they were most woefully frightened. 

Hickey having seen them in conversation 
with Stubbs, and perhaps overhearing ever so 
little of their words, had good and sufficient 
proof of their insincerity. Knowing how 
desperately wicked was the plot, they could not 


A TORY PLOT. 


123 


fail to understand that their lives would be 
counted as nothing if they should appear to 
stand in the way of a successful ending of the 
conspiracy. 

Even Hickey would be warranted in strik- 
ing them down, because he more than others, 
save perhaps Chandler, was in danger in the 
Continental Army, and it was surpnsing that he 
forebore at a moment when all might have 
been ended, so far as they two were concerned, 
without overly-much peril to himself. 

Doubtless it was his arrogance and desire to 
appear of great importance in the eyes of his 
associates that determined him in taking the 
lads where they might be seen by others in the 
plot, else had he killed them there. 

You will follow me, and without further 
word,” he said, drawing from inside his coat a 
long-bladed, keen-edged knife. I am dis- 
posed that my betters, as you call them, shall 
pass sentence upon you, rather than inflict pun- 


124 


A TORY PLOT. 


ishment on my own responsibility ; but yet if 
you make any delay whatsoever, or raise your 
voice in outcry, then will I deal the blow 
which shall silence your tongues forever.” 

There was no mistaking the man’s purpose. 

Both Lloyd and Dennys understood that he 
would do exactly as he had threatened, and 
while seeing no hope for themselves they were 
not willing to yield up their lives to do his 
bidding. 

Terrified though Lloyd was he did not in- 
tend, if it should be possible to control him- 
self, that this man should have the satisfaction 
of hearing them sue for mercy, and he said 
stoutly : 

“Neither you nor any man can prove us 
guilty of being spies ; but yet we shall follow 
as you say, because it seems that we are fallen 
into evil hands, and it would indeed be death 
to refuse ; but mark me well, Master Hickey, 
that once we are come to w’^here I shall have 


A TORY PLOT. 


125 


speech with Master Smart, then shall you be 
brought to an understanding of your proper 
position. We were minded to withdraw from 
the business because of your arrogance, and 
should have done so except that we were told 
you had no more authority in this business than 
Caleb Billings. Now you threaten to murder 
us, and because of such threats we are forced to 
obey your orders ; but you shall suifer for it, 
and that before the morning comes.” 

It is not possible to say how much effect this 
able speech had upon the traitorous guards- 
man; but certain it is that Dennys was won- 
drously relieved in mind by hearing his comrade 
thus assert himself, and he made haste to add : 

When we agreed to cast our lot among such 
as Governor Tryon, Master Matthews, Master 
Smart and the gunsmith Forbes, it was with 
the idea that, although engaged in what some 
would call a treasonable enterprise, we were 
among those who at least had gentlemanly in- 


126 


A TORY PLOT. 


stincts, instead of which we find ourselves com- 
rades with a bully and would-be murderer.” 

I hadn’t caught you red-handed, so to 
speak, in the very act of giving information of 
what you have learned this night, to the enemy, 
then might your words nettle me; but now 
they have no effect, for I know that between 
this hour and sunrise you will have gone out 
of this world, although not in so disgraceful a 
fashion as is usually accorded spies. Move on 
and see to it that you loiter not.” 

As he said this Hickey prodded the boys 
with the point of his knife, causing them no 
slight degree of pain, and they believing 
beyond a peradventure that he would not hesi- 
tate at taking their lives, obeyed his orders, 
their hearts growing heavier and heavier as 
they retraced their steps toward Whitehall Slip, 
until it was as if they could not advance one 
foot before the other, for of a surety it seemed 
that they were absolutely going to their death. 


A TORY PLOT. 


127 


CHAPTEK VI. 

PRISOIS^ERS. 

The boys understood full well how immi- 
nent was the danger which menaced at this 
moment. 

Hickey was not the only one who would 
clamor for their lives when it should be known 
that they had been talking with a soldier from 
General Putnam’s headquarters. The natural 
supposition would be that they had betrayed 
the conspiracy, unless, as came into Lloyd’s 
mind while they were being driven like cattle 
before the arrogant soldier, they might per- 
chance make it appear as if they were winning 
Stubbs over to the plot. 

This fellow had shown himself to be quick- 
witted, and the two had no doubt but that he 


128 


• A TORY PLOT. 


would suspect the true condition of affairs, if it 
should be possible for them to have speech 
with him. 

In repeating to Stubbs what had been told 
them on board the Duchess of Gordon, in order 
that he might carry the information to General 
Putnam, the boys had deliberately broken their 
oaths taken before Master Smart. 

Under ordinary circumstances this would 
have appeared to them a most flagrant crime, 

for he who has foresworn himself no longer 
can claim even so much as the acquaintance of 
honorable men.” 

In this case, however, the end justifled the 
means,” and at the time they repeated to Paul 
Stubbs what they had learned on board the 
Duchess of Gordon, neither felt any convictions 
about so doing, because it was to save the com- 
mander-in-chief from captivity, if not death, and 
perhaps prevent the cause of freedom from 
being absolutely crushed. 


A TORY PLOT. 


129 


Now, however, when, unless some unexpected 
accident or circumstance should arise within a 
few hours, death was very near to them, both 
regretted deeply that their last act should have 
been in a certain degree a false one, although 
neither would have changed the situation had 
it been possible. 

The two preceded Thomas Hickey in silence. 
It was impossible for them to hold any private 
conversation, and surely there was nothing 
which they wished to say to this brutal 
captor. 

Now that it was come so late, the streets 
were nearly deserted, and they saw no person to 
whom they might appeal for help until they 
were returned to Whitehall Slip, where Caleb 
Billings yet remained, and even in their ex- 
treme danger Dennys questioned in his mind 
as to whether this boatman was on duty day 
and night in his efforts to aid the murderous 


130 


A TORY PLOT. 


“What is the meaning of this?” the boatman 
asked, as the soldier and his prisoners came up. 
“ I thought you lads had gone home.” 

“ They would be there but for me,” Hickey 
said, in a consequential tone. “ I have discov- 
ered that they are spies, and ’twixt now and day- 
light they shall receive the punishment due to 
spies. I would that there were something 
worse than death, for such a crime cannot be 
expiated simply by the loss of their lives.” 

“Tut, tut, man; you are out of your head. 
Too much brooding over the future has weak- 
ened your brain. I know who these lads are, 
and can answer for it as well as one man can 
for another that they be not spies.” 

“But I tell you they are. It is hardly ten 
minutes since I saw them holding private con- 
versation with a soldier from Putnam’s head- 
quarters, whose face I well remember.” 

“And is it forbidden that if we embark in 
this enterprise we shall no longer speak to those 


A TORY PLOT. 


131 


whom we know ?” Lloyd asked boldly, encour- 
aged by the friendliness which the boatman ex- 
hibited toward them. 

“ It is not permitted you shall come straight 
from having been admitted to our secrets and 
repeat them to those against whom we w^ork ” 

^‘Know you of a surety that they have done 
this thing?” Billings asked, now coming to un- 
derstand fully the gravity of the situation. 

Ay, that I do.” 

^‘It is a lie, Master Billings. He knows 
nothing of the kind!” Dennys cried. “We 
stopped to speak with an acquaintance who met 
us on our way home. He came up after we 
had left him and accused us of having betrayed 
the secret. He has no knowledge on the sub- 
ject, it is simply his suspicions.” 

“All that is true,” Lloyd added. “We but 
spoke to Paul Stubbs, as was necessary when 
he accosted us, and perchance lingered a little 
long in the conversation, for there came into my 


132 


A TORY PLOT. 


miDd the thought that he might become one of 
us if properly approached. This man who 
takes upon himself to manage affairs which are 
in charge of his betters, heard not a word that 
was said, but pounced upon us with the word 
‘spy’ in his mouth, and immediately threat- 
ened us with death. Even now the blood is 
running down our backs where he has prodded 
us with his knife.” 

“Is this true?” Billings asked, now in a 
threatening tone. 

“Ay, that it is,” Dennys cried, whipping off 
his coat to show even in the darkness the crim- 
son stains upon his shirt. “If such be the 
comrades with whom we are asked to work, it 
is time we presented ourselves once more to 
Master Smart, insisting on being released from 
the obligations which we entered into.” 

“Hark you, lads. This soldier who takes 
upon himself to question the commands of 
those in authority is no more in this business 



‘Master Hickey,” Billings cried angrily, “dare use the word spy to me, and 
J will settle accounts here.”— Page 188, 





% 



A TORY PLOT. 


133 


than am I, and you may be certain he shall not 
work his will upon you while I stand by.” 

During this latter portion of the conversation 
Hickey stood directly behind the boys, knife in 
hand, ready to check a possible flight, and when 
the boatman thus announced his purpose, he 
said vindictively : 

^Hf you choose to assume the sins of these 
young spies, then will there be another who 
suffers death this night, for I shall take all 
three in charge.” 

As to that there may be a question,” Master 
Hickey,” Billings cried angrily. ‘^It is not as 
safe to threaten me as it is two lads who have 
but just proved their willingness to aid us by 
making a long and tedious journey. Dare use 
the word spy to me, and you and I will settle 
accounts here, or if that be impossible, I will 
fling everything upon the hazard, but that you 
shall be checked in thus assuming authority.” 

“ What mean you by such threat ?” and now 


134 


A TORY PLOT. 


the soldier turned furiously upon the boat- 
man. 

All which you can make the w^ords imply. 
I did not stake my life in this business to be 
set upon by such as you, or, in fact, by any one ; 
but bound myself as a comrade with those who 
would do the king’s will. That you are a sol- 
dier in the Guard gives you no right to dictate 
to me, or any one else, and the slightest hint to 
your officers will put you out of the way to do 
a mischief.” 

“Now you are threatening to break your 
oath, and such words as that by agreement to 
which w e have subscribed, may be punished 
with death !” Hickey cried, speaking indistinctly 
because of the rage which consumed him. 

“You are overfoiid of prating about blood- 
shed,” Billings retorted in less anger than his 
fellow-conspirator, and while the boys failed to 
understand how this quarrel might work to 
their advantage, they knew of a surety it had 


A TORY PLOT. 


135 


gone so far that they need no longer fear what 
the Guardsman might do. 

The only danger which now threatened them 
was that Hickey could persuade such as Master 
Smart to have faith in his suspicions. 

The two men stood glowering at each other, 
ready at the first provocation to engage in bat- 
tle, and for an instant there came into Lloyd’s 
mind the thought that he and Dennys might 
possibly escape at this moment ; but he put it 
aside almost as soon as it was formed, know- 
ing that death, or, at the best, severe 
wounds, might follow such attempt, for Hickey 
was ripe to do any mischief. 

While one might have counted twenty the 
angry men stood facing each other, and then 
Billings, being the first to control himself, said 
in a tone of suppressed excitement : 

You shall answer for this to none other 
than liis excellency, the governor.” 

It is before him I intend you shall go.” 


136 


A TORY PLOT. 


Then since we appear to be of the same 
mind, let us embark at once, for it is time you 
were checked in your arrogance, or that I draw 
back from an enterprise which is endangered by 
such as you.” 

I intend to take you before his excellency 
within the hour !” Hickey cried, and Billings 
replied with more of calmness than be had 
shown since the quarrel began : 

Whether you take me there, or I you, makes 
little difference since we appear before him. 
Get into that boat, and we will pull out to the 
Duchess of Gordon.” 

‘‘ These lads are my prisoners, and shall go 
with me.” 

^^They are to accompany us; but not as 
your prisoners. Now hark you. Master Hickey, 
I am fast losing patience, and will do you a 
mischief if this conversation be continued many 
moments longer. Lads, do you go into my 
boat, and we will see that this fighting-cock 


A TORY PLOT. 


137 


bas his spurs cropped ’twixt now and sun- 
rise.” 

As he spoke the old man began launching the 
boat, and the soldier, still holding the knife in 
his hand, stood in a threatening attitude over 
those whom he claimed as prisoners. 

Once the skiff was afloat and before Hickey 
could give any commands, Lloyd and Dennys 
stepped on board. 

They had good reason to fear that the soldier 
could so far excite suspicion against them as 
that they should be imprisoned, if nothing 
worse followed ; but of the two evils, this ac- 
companying Hickey when Billings went along 
as their friend, was the least, and there was yet 
a hope that something might come up which 
would favor them. 

Lloyd and Dennys bestowed themselves in 
the bow of the boat ; the soldier stood on the 
midship thwart, where he could keep guard 
over them, and Billings plied the oars well aft 


138 


A TORY PLOT. 


that he might thereby properly trim the little 
craft. 

Not a word was spoken during this voyage in 
the darkness. On arriving within fifty yards of 
the armed ship they were hailed by the look- 
out on deck, who cried sharply : 

Boat ahoy ! Cease rowing until you can 
give an account of yourselves !” 

I desire speech with Master Smart !” 
Hickey cried, and the lookout asked with a 
laugh : 

And who may you be who thus speaks in 
so commanding a tone ?” 

“ Master Smart will know my voice, and there 
is no reason why I should bawl out for every- 
one to hear.” 

‘‘ You may say that Caleb Billings, who is 
not ashamed of his name or his work, craves 
speech with some one in authority on board the 
ship,” the boatman added, and a moment later 
the voice of Smart was heard as he called out : 


A TORY PLOT. 


139 


‘^Pull aloDgside, Billmgs, and unless your 
errand be of great importance you may rue hav^ 
ing come without being summoned.” 

I have brought him as prisoner,” Hickey 
shouted, no longer able to control himself. 
^^He and the two boys who quitted this ship a 
short time ago !” 

Hold your tongue, you fool,” Master Smart 
cried angrily. If you have business to trans- 
act, come on board and make it known, instead 
of remaining there where prying ears may hear 
your words.” 

Hickey was silenced by this reproof; but it 
was the silence of a man who is confident he 
shall soon triumph, and only awaits his oppor- 
tunit}^ 

Billings pulled the boat alongside; Lloyd 
caught the rope which was passed them by one 
of the sailors, and Hickey sprang over the rail 
eager to tell his story. 

Let him go !” the boatman said contemptu- 


140 


A TORY PLOT. 


ously. “We will wait until having been 
summoned.” 

“ But he will prove we are guilty of that 
with which he charges us, while no defense is 
made,” Lloyd objected. 

“ Let him do it, and then we shall have our 
say, for I warrant you Master Smart is not one 
to hear a single side of any question, and he 
knows full well that I am to be trusted.” 

Then the boatman fell silent, and the boys 
holding each other’s hands awaited the result 
of the interview which might decide whether 
they were to live or be murdered. 

It is hardly possible to describe the conflict- 
ing emotions in the minds of each. Both real- 
ized fully the perils which menaced, and were 
the more disturbed because of knowing that the 
charges brought against them w^ere true. 

There was only this thing to give them com- 
fort. It was positive Hickey had not heai d any 
of their conversation with Paul Stubbs, other- 


A TORY PLOT. 


141 


wise in his anger he would have made known 
such fact. 

Then again the lads had good reason to be- 
lieve that should they disappear, because of 
being held prisoners on board the ship, General 
Putnam would make every effort to discover 
their whereabouts, and until Sir William 
Howe’s forces should arrive the Continentals 
were stronger in New York than the Brit- 
ishers. 

However this was but a single ray of light in 
all the gloom which surrounded them. They 
had embarked in the work of unearthing the 
plot voluntarily, and now was really come 
the time when they had failed, by reason of be- 
ing discovered. 

That Governor Tryon would cause them to 
be executed if it was proven they had betrayed 
the secret, there could be no doubt, and it 
seemed at that moment as if it was only a ques- 
tion as to who would have the most influence 


142 


A TORY PLOT. 


with the king’s representatives, Thomas Hickey 
or Caleb Billings. 

Not until fully ten minutes had passed did 
any word come from Master Smart, and then 
one of the petty officers of the ship, leaning 
over the rail, said in a low tone : 

You and the lads are to come on board, 
Billings.” 

“It is time, I should say, for that crazy sol- 
dier must have told all he knew and consider- 
bly more. When the word of one like him can 
be taken as against mine, honest men had best 
give such as the Duchess of Gordon a wide 
berth.” 

“I do not understand what you mean, Bil- 
lings; but suppose you have good cause for 
complaint. The soldier appears to love the 
king most desperately at all events.” 

“Ay, he so appears,” Billings replied, as he 
swung himself over the rail ; “ but whether all 
be as it seems is another question in my mind. 


A TORY PLOT. 


143 


Come on, lads, and we’ll soon know how this 
matter is to end.” 

The boys had followed him up the ladder, 
and were by his side on the deck when he 
ceased speaking. 

^^You are to come with me,” the redcoated 
officer said in a not unfriendly tone, and 
straightway marched aft, thus intimating that 
the matter was to be investigated by no less 
than the governor himself, otherwise had they 
been taken to Master Smart’s quarters. 

AVhen the three gained the state saloon, 
where was seated the king’s official, they under- 
stood that the charges preferred by Hickey 
were considered of no mean importance and 
seriousness, because of the expression to be seen 
on the faces of all. Master Smart conducted 
the affair, and he began by saying as he ad- 
dressed himself wholly to Caleb Billings: 

What know you of the doings of these lads 
after they left the landing-stage?” 


144 


A TORY PLOT. 


more than they have told me, which is 
not much; but this I make bold to say, even in 
the presence of his excellency, that the suspicion 
of a crazy soldier is not proof when a human 
life hangs in the balance, else if such be the 
case many of us who are now embarked in a 
certain enterprise had best withdraw while 
there is time.” 

“It is too late to go backward now,” one of 
the officers present said sternly. “Those who 
set out upon a work cannot, because of a whim 
or personal desires, throw off all responsibility 
in the matter. Once having sworn, you are 
bound to continue the task.” 

Master Smart added as soon as the gentle- 
man ceased speaking : 

“ There need be no fear that supicions will 
be received as proof ; but when the question is 
of the fidelity of one enrolled among us, then the 
time is come for a rigid examination. This is 
due to all, because the common safety demand s it.” 


A TORY PLOT. 


145 


^'But I am making no complaint on that ac- 
count. I know these lads, and when they were 
driven like sheep by Hickey to where I stood, 
the blood streaming from wounds which he had 
wantonly inflicted, while he loudly threatened 
that they should be killed before morning, then 
it was I believed it my duty to lend them aid.” 

How have they been wounded ?” Master 
Smart asked, and ev^en the governor looked up 
in surprise. 

Take off your coats, lads, that all may see 
what this loud-spoken soldier of the ragamuflSn 
army is willing to do when he runs no risk of 
being chastised.” 

The boys obeyed quickly, and although the 
wounds on their backs were no more than slight 
punctures of the skin, suflScient blood had. been 
drawn to crimson their shirts until it was as if 
they had been grievously injured. 

Why was that done ?” Governor Tryon 
asked, and Hickey would have made reply but 


146 


A TORY PLOT. 


that Master Smart checked him with a gesture, 
as Lloyd said : 

Because we refused to move as quickly as 
he demanded. May it please your excellency, 
my comrade and I had just come from rowing a 
boat to West Point and back without sleep 
since night before last; weary to the verge of 
exhaustion, and eager to be at our homes lest 
suspicion be aroused because of prolonged ab- 
sence, it was but natural w^e should defend our- 
selves ; but only did so by remonstrances.” 

‘‘Attend to the matter, Giles,” the governor 
said with a careless wave of the hand, as if he 
thought it beneath his dignity to hold converse 
with the lads ; and Master Smart said in a tone 
which caused the boys to understand that, how- 
ever informal the meeting might be, this was 
really an examination which might result in the 
sentence of death. 

“It is said that on leaving this ship, where 
you had been intrusted with the secret of a cerr 


A TORY PLOT. 


147 


tain entei’prise, you held private converse with 
a soldier in the rebel army, during which you 
betrayed what was so lately sealed with your 
oaths.” 

Again Hickey attempted to speak, and Mas- 
ter Smart said sternly : 

“ You have had full opportunity of making 
charges, and wdll now remain silent until called 
upon.” 

‘^We did have speech with the soldier,” 
Lloyd replied ; but that in itself could not 
have been any crime since we know there are 
soldiers in the American forces who have em- 
barked in the same enterprise as we. This one, 
however, was an acquaintance who met us by 
accident, and we spoke him fairly on matters 
concerning only ourselves. Then he went 
his way, and this other soldier came up, insist- 
ing that we were spies and declaring we should 
be killed before sunrise.” 

“ Who is the man with whom you converse?” 


148 


A TORY PLOT. 


Paul Stubbs.” 

And what was the nature of the talk 
between you ?” 

“Something so trifling as not to remain in 
the mind after the excitement caused by Hickey. 
He reminded us that the hour was late, and 
two lads like us should be at home ; asked 
where we had come from, whereat we told him 
we had but lately parted with Master Billings, 
and such light words passed between us of no 
moment, and with so little of importance in 
them that one could hardly remember them 
save in a general way. At the time there was 
in my mind the thought that this friend could 
be induced to join the entei’prise with which 
you are connected, sir, and I spoke somewhat of 
the opportunity for getting money that would 
be to his advantage.” 

o 

“ What reply did he make ?” 

“If I remember rightly there was nothing 
definite said. The hour was late, and he ap- 


A TORY PLOT. 


149 


peared to believe we should go home rather 
than remain on the street.” 

‘‘ How long were you with him ?” 

Not above two or three minutes ; certainly 
no longer time than we have already spent in 
your presence.” 

“ And you saw none other than he ?” 

We had but just landed, sir, and Hickey 
must have followed us instantly we left Master 
Billings, for it is in my mind that we could not 
have been away from the landing-stage five 
minutes when he seized us on the street, de- 
claring that we were his prisoners.” 

Master Smart stood for a moment as if in 
thought, looking up at the governor, who made 
no remark ; then he turned toward Caleb Bill- 
ings, as he asked : 

“ Can you tell us more regarding this matter?” 

‘^Nothing save I repeat the loud and angry 
works used by Hickey which would in them- 
selves have been enough to betray somewhat of 


150 


A TORY PLOT. 


our plans, were they overheard. Late as was 
the hour he made a most unseemly disturb- 
ance, declaring the boys should be executed as 
spies, and I leave it to you, sir, that if such 
should be heard by certain of the rebels, par- 
ticularly when applied to the sons of Abi*aham 
Howland and Master Caere, it would have pro- 
voked a rigid inquiry. I charge Hickey with 
having done more toward betraying the secret 
than was in the power of these boys during the 
short time they were away from me.” 

‘‘There need be no counter-charges brought 
now. The question is only as to whether the 
lads are guilty, as he claims.” 

“ Surely their words are as good as his, and 
if they should be guilty, then will I say we 
were betrayed in shorter time than I ever knew 
an enterprise before, for it was to me as if they 
had but just left the landing-stage when he 
drove them back, brandishing his knife, and, as 
you have seen, using it repeatedly while he pro- 


A TORY PLOT. 


151 


claimed to all who might be within hearing 
that they should of a surety meet death before 
sunrise.” 

Master Smart stepped to the side of Gov- 
ernor Tryon, and after a brief conversation 
which was conducted in whispers, said to the 
prisoners : 

You will come with me, lads, until this mat- 
ter may be final settled.” 

Having thus spoken he led the way on deck, 
and once more into the same small cabin where 
the boys w’ere first received. 

This time I shall make no apology for lock- 
ing the door upon you,” he said gravely. You 
can well understand that for a certain while 
you are in truth prisoners.” 

^‘But surely you will not condemn us to 
death upon the guesses of such as Hickey ?” 
Lloyd cried. 

You will receive fullest justice, of that there 
need be no fear.” 


152 


A TORY PLOT. 


Then he left the cabin, and the boys stood 
looking into each other’s eyes, not daring to give 
words to the thoughts in their minds, for they 
knew full well there was much of danger men- 
acing them at that moment. 


A TORY PLOT. 


153 


CHAPTEE VIL 

GUILTY. 

Knowing that they were guilty of the 
charges which Thomas Hickey had made with- 
out having sufficient reason, this fact caused the 
boys to look more gloomily to the future than 
if it had been possible to clear themselves by 
telling the truth. 

Each tried to console himself with the 
thought that the soldier had no proof against 
him; the fact that, however vindictive he might 
be, there was no tangible evidence of their guilt 
upon which he could put his hand, but had ac- 
cused them thus gravely simply upon suspicion, 
would necessarily weaken, in the minds of those 
who had charge of the affair, any statement he 
might make. 


154 


A TORY PLOT. 


But this last was as nothing compared to the 
absolute fact, and where there were so many 
conspirators, it was quite probable some one in 
the plot had seen them entering or going from 
General Putnam’s headquarters, in which case 
such evidence would be forthcoming once the 
fact of their arrest had been made known to 
those concerned. 

^^Do you think they will make any attempt 
at having speech with Paul Stubbs?” Dennys 
asked in a tremulous whisper as the two re- 
mained standing exactly where Master Smart 
had left them. 

“It is not unlikely. Where there are so 
many in the plot, and among them those whom 
w^e could have sworn w^ere devoted to the 
cause, there is little doubt but that some one 
will be found who may approach him with 
safety.” 

“And in case he hesitates ever so slightly in 
agreeing to the story we have told, or makes a 


A TORY PLOT. 


155 


different statement, then indeed is our doom 
sealed.” 

‘^Ay, so far as these people be concerned ; 
but see you not how much good may come to 
us if Paul Stubbs was thus questioned?” 

‘‘I fail to see in it anything but evil.” 

‘^Surely are you grown thicker-headed than 
ever before if you do not understand how this 
could be to our advantage. Suppose Paul 
Stubbs should be questioned concerning us? 
He is not so dull but that he would believe we 
were fallen into trouble, and more especially so 
if he searches to-morrow and fails to find us. If 
he be the man I take him for but little time 
will elapse before he learns where we are.” 

^‘Even then how might he aid us ? I ques- 
tion if General Putnam himself, or even the 
commander-in-chief, would be able to rescue us 
in time ; for once it has been decided we are 
guilty, you know as well as I that punishment 
will speedily follow.” 


156 


A TORY PLOT. 


*^They will think twice before murdering us, 
whose fathers are of some little consequence in 
the city,” Lloyd said stoutly, as if arguing with 
himself. 

Of how much consequence in the eyes of a 
Britisher is any colonist, and more particularly 
now, when we are in rebellion against the 
king ? If Governor Tryon can find six hundred 
persons in the city of New York who are will- 
ing to plot murder against General Washington, 
of what account are we two lads, even though 
your father be a prosperous merchant and mine 
one who has had some voice in the affairs of the 
colony ?” 

Lloyd began to understand now as he had 
not done before, that they had little to hope 
for, so far as the social position of their parents 
was concerned, and straightway he was plunged 
into a greater depth of despondency than was 
Dennys. 

During perhaps five minutes the two faced 


A TORY PLOT. 


157 


each other in silence, and then Lloyd exclaimed 
petulantly : 

what benefit is it that we look upon the 
dai’kest side of this matter ? No good can come 
from losing heart, and much evil may follow, 
since, should we see a way out of the difificulty 
we would not be in as good condition to benefit 
by it.” 

‘‘Have you so far lost heart, Lloyd, as to 
think that there is no hope for us save by 
escape ? Surely that is what your words imply.” 

“I was but following your example and 
taking the gloomiest view of it. I cannot be- 
lieve Thomas Hickey would be able to persuade 
even a bitter enemy of ours that what was done 
by us this night could be proof of guilt ; yet 
such may be the case.” 

Now it was Dennys who played the part of 
comforter by suddenly changing the subject of 
conversation, as he spoke of the dear ones at 
home, wondering whether their prolonged ab- 


158 


A TORY PLOT. 


seiice would cause alarm, and otherwise leading 
his comrade’s thoughts from the main question 
in the case. 

The two ^vere speaking of their mothers 
when the rattle of the key in the lock was 
heard, and they turned about, expecting to see 
Master Smart. 

It was Caleb Billings who entered, and that 
he had not brought good news seemed to have 
been proven by the fact that the door was 
locked behind him. 

^^Are you a prisoner too?” Dennys cried in 
surprise. 

‘‘Not so, lad, although I might be could I 
have got my hands on that overbeaiing soldier, 
for a verity I would have flogged him even be- 
fore his excellency, the governor, but that they 
restrained me.” 

“Then he had more to say after we were 
brought away ?” 

“ Of a truth he had, and it would seem as if 



“Are 70 U a prisoner too?” Pennys cried in surprise.— Page 158. 





A TORY PLOT. 


159 


the wretch had but one desire, which is to take 
your lives.” 

“ Is it possible he. can convince such iutelli* 
gent men as Governor Tryon and those about 
him that we be spies, simply because we were 
seen to speak with Paul Stubbs ?” 

“ Lads, I have known you since the day Mas- 
ter Dacre brought two toddling childen to take 
passage in my boat,” Caleb began gravely, and 
little thought the time would ever come when 
we three should be concerned in what might 
lead us to disgraceful death; yet such is the 
case, as I must admit.” 

Why do you speak thus sorrowfully ?” 
Lloyd asked, in so loud a tone that the old 
boatman checked him with a gesture, and the 
boy continued in a whisper : 

“One would almost say you had come to 
believe we were spies.” 

Instead of replying directly to this remark 
which was little less than a question, the old 


160 


A TORY PLOT. 


boatman continued with a deeply serious 
manner : 

I embarked in this business, lads, without 
ku owing all which it was proposed to do, and 
iater held true because of my oath; yet never 
did I swear to be concerned in the death of two 
lads who might come into the matter, believing 
they served the cause which as children they 
have been taught to love.” 

Both the boys were thoroughly alarmed by 
the tone and manner in which the old man 
spoke, and Dennys, taking him by the hands, 
cried : 

It must be that they have already decided 
upon our death ?” 

Not so, lad ; yet of a verity I believe that 
villainous Thomas Hickey will be able to com- 
pass it ! This I say, not that you may be cast 
down, but lest hearing somewhat of it suddenly 
you were overwhelmed : The work you en- 
gaged in is a man’s part, and as men, rather 


A TORY PLOT. 


161 


than lads, you must bear yourselves now. Be- 
cause of my having been faithful to the oath 
taken I am allowed a visit here at this time in 
order to give you comfort, and yet I am all at 
sea to know how that may be done.” 

Do you mean that the governor and Master 
Smart, to say nothing of those other Britishers, 
will condemn us because by chance we stum- 
bled upon Paul Stubbs while returning 
home ?” 

“ It is well you should know all, lads, and 
his story is much stronger than seemed at first. 
It appears he saw you coming from General 
Putnam’s headquarters hardly more than two 
hours before your proposal to join in the busi- 
ness, which accounts for the sharp questioning 
he indulged in at that time. He also claims to 
have seen this Paul Stubbs, in civilian’s garb, 
loitering nearabout Whitehall Slip during the 
greater portion of to-day. Taking all that in 
connection with the fact that you held conver- 


162 


A TORY PLOT. 


sation with the soldier, shows that he was wait- 
ing for none other than yon two, and puts a 
diiferent aspect on the case.” 

Then you also have come to the belief we 
are guilty Lloyd said, speaking hardly louder 
than a whisper, so great was his anguish, for 
now indeed did death seem close upon them. 

I have not come to air my beliefs or suspi- 
cions. You two are in my eyes hardly more 
than children whom I have known these ten 
years or more, and if the venture upon which 
we are embarked calls for the taking of such 
lives as yours, it were time an old man like my- 
self withdrew even at the expense of his own 
life.” 

“ Then you will aid us ?” Dennys cried, again 
clasping Caleb’s hand as hope began to spring 
up in his heart. 

“ I would, lads, for a certainty, did I know 
how it might be done. On board this ship are 
only those, save perhaps you two, who serve 


A TORY PLOT. 


163 


the king faithfully, and would believe it a crime 
to wink at your escape. What may I, single- 
handed, hope to do against these ?” 

“Nothing!” Dennys replied mournfully, re- 
leasing the old man’s hands and staggering back 
against the edge of the bunk. 

“So it would seem; yet am I minded to 
watch for any opportunity, and should one 
come, however slight, we will take advantage 
of it even though the odds are against our es- 
caping with our lives, for yours are forfeited 
most like if you remain on board twenty-four 
hours longer.” 

“ Then you at least do not believe us to be 
spies ?” Dennys cried, eager to learn that amid 
all their enemies there was one who held them 
guiltless. 

“Lads, I have not asked you the question. I 
should believe you guiltless of this thing, did 
you assure me on your word that such vvas the 
case ; yet from all that has been told this night 


164 


A TORY PLOT. 


it is in my opinion best you make no 
pretense.” 

And even though we did not you would aid 
us if you could ?” 

Ay, because, as I have said, this venture 
was not made by me with the thought that it 
could cost the lives of two children. It was 
only to bid you be of good heart that 1 came 
here, and lest suspicion should be brought upon 
myself, it is well I go now. Be ready for any- 
thing which may come up ; but should the 
worst occur, remember that death is not the 
most terrible thing which can come upon man 
or boy.” 

Then Caleb knocked loudly on the door as a 
signal that he was ready to bring the visit to a 
close, and after some waiting, footsteps could be 
heard in the distance, telling that his summons 
was about to be answered. 

He looked around at the boys as if minded to 
say something more, and then, evidently repent- 


A TORY PLOT. 


165 


ing of the purpose, turned his face toward the 
door, much as though he would shut out from 
view the sight of their misery. 

When he was gone the two boys, understand- 
ing only too well how little of hope remained 
for them, could not indulge in conversation. 

Each was striving to keep back the tears he 
believed it would be unmanly to let fall, and 
dared not speak lest by so doing he should 
allow his grief to overpower him. 

While there was so much of anguish in a cer- 
tain small cabin on board the Duchess of Gor- 
don, matters concerning these two boys were 
being advanced in the city, and in order that 
all may be understood in its regular coui’se, it 
is necessary to listen to the latter portion of a 
conversation held between Master Smart and 
Thomas Hickey on the deck of the armed ship 
at nearabout dayliglit on the morning after 
Lloyd and Dennys had been made prisoners on 
the charge of being spies. 


166 


A TORY PLOT. 


These two men had come out of the main 
saloon, looking much as do those who have 
spent the entire night in labor, and Master 
Smart said with the air of a superior w^ho is 
pleased with the doings of his subordinate : 

‘‘ You have apparently rendered a most sig- 
nal service to the venture, Hickey, and your 
reward shall be commensurate with the faith- 
fulness you displayed. Even though we should 
be justified in punishing these lads without 
further testimony, I would not tharwe stained 
our hands with blood unless it seemed abso- 
lutely necessary.” 

“ It has become so,” Hickey replied with 
much of vindictiveness in his tone, “ unless you 
are minded to hold them prisoners on board the 
ship until we have accomplished our purpose. 
Because they are the sons of men who stand 
high among their brother rebels, should they 
escape the reward which they have earned ?” 

“By no means. Do not understand me as 


A TORY PLOT. 


167 


pleading for them because of their connections. 
Were they sons of the most loyal men in the 
city, the same punishment should be given ; but 
I would have the matter settled beyond a per- 
adventure, since you have suggested this means 
of ascertaining, and his excellency has been 
pleased to put it all in your hands.” 

“ I will have speech with Paul Stubbs before 
nightfall and repeat honestly and exactly, so 
far as may be, his very words. Should he bear 
out the statement made by these lads, regard- 
less of the fact that he loitered in the vicinity 
of Whitehall Slip during yesterday on the 
watch for some one, and only left after the 
boys arrived, then I will be the first to admit 
the mistake.” 

^^Of that I have no doubt, Hickey ; but keep 
well in mind that our work is of the first im- 
portance ; that you must give rise to no suspi- 
cions, for it would be a serious job if we be- 
trayed ourselves through being overcautious.” 


168 


A TORY PLOT. 


“ There can be no risk in such work as I fig- 
ure it myself, Master Smart. Should these 
boys be spies, then of a truth does Stubbs know 
all which we have done, and I can give him no 
additional information. If he is yet ignorant 
it shall be my care that he remains so.” 

^‘Will it be possible for }’ou to report on 
board this vessel before sunset ?” 

have leave of absence for forty-eight 
hours, therefore am my own man until day- 
break to-morrow.” 

“ Then I shall see you before the day is done ?” 

“Yes, and in the meantime you will have 
careful watch set over the prisoners ?” 

“ Of that you may be certain.” 

“It does not pleasure me that Caleb Billings 
should be allowed another private interview 
with them, for I can but distrust him also.” 

“Now you are grown oversuspicious, Hickey, 
through having made one successful discovery. 
Billings is faithful, though soft-hearted; but 


A TORY PLOT. 


169 


there is little need you should let your mind be 
troubled ; the boatman has gone on shore, and 
can have no excuse for paying the ship another 
visit until he be summoned.” 

Master Hickey did not longer delay. A 
boat, manned by four men, was waiting along- 
side, and into this he dropped, waving his 
hand in adieu to the governor’s confidential 
agent. 

Two hours later Paul Stubbs was strolling 
in an apparently aimless fashion nearby the 
fort in the vicinity of Bridge Street, w^hen he 
was accosted by one in the uniform of a Guards- 
man, whom he recognized as Hickey. 

The soldier greeted Stubbs in a friendly 
manner by crying : 

Well, comrade, how does it come that I see 
you abroad without a uniform? Is it true that 
your term of service has expired ?” 

I am on six days’ leave, and have left my 
regimentals behind me for the sake of comfort. 


170 


A TORY PLOT. 


I supposed you Guardsmen were not allowed to 
roam overmuch ?” 

Like yourself, I am on leave, although it is 
only for forty-eight hours, half of which time 
has already expired. Are you bound for any 
particular place 

Only enjoying a stroll, for it is long since I 
have taken one without being hampered by 
accouterments.” 

“ Then it could not have been you I saw last 
night?” 

Where?” 

“ Not far from Whitehall Slip. I cried out, 
but got no reply.” 

“Yes, it was me,” Stubbs replied, as if trying 
to recall the events of the previous night. “ I 
was somewhere thereabouts, but just at the 
moment fail to remember. However, certain it 
is that I called not that a stroll for pleas- 
ure.” 

“ Then you were still on duty ?” 


A TORY PLOT. 


in 


Not so ; but yet I had somewhat of business 
to perform.” 

“You were talking to two lads when I first 
observed you,” Hickey said, watching closely 
his companion’s face. 

Stubbs gave no evidence of surprise or un- 
easiness, because from what the boys had told 
him he knew the Guardsman to be one of the 
conspirators, and understood full well why he 
was thus accosted. 

“Yes, I stopped for a moment to speak with 
young Dacre and Howland, for it is in my mind 
that they think of enlisting.” 

“ Could you not persuade them ?” 

“I only made mention of what we would 
have them do. Their haste was great, and it 
was not a fitting time to go into the details of 
the matter.” 

Now Stubbs was doing his share of the 
watching, and he noted a certain triumphant 
look come into Hickey’s eyes as he thus made a 


172 


A TORY PLOT. 


statement decidedly in opposition to what the 
boys had told. 

The traitorous Guardsman had accomplished 
his purpose with but brief expenditure of time, 
and yet was so incautious as to give his com- 
panion cause for suspicion. 

Knowing as he did the danger in which the 
boys were placed, Stubbs was not long in hit- 
ting upon the truth of the matter, or, it may be 
more correct to say, in “guessing at the 
truth.” 

Like a flash there came to him the thought 
that Lloyd and Dennys had been accused by 
this man of double dealing, and on the instant 
he resolved to take some desperate chances on 
his own responsibility. 

That Hickey told the truth in saying he had 
a forty-eight-hour leave of absence the soldier 
knew full well, because he had satisfied himself 
on that point the previous afternoon, doing so 
in order to learn whether the conspirator would 


A TORY PLOT. 


173 


be able to meet the boys on their return from 
West Point. 

Now it was for him an easy matter to guess 
that the Guardsman had lately come from the 
Duchess of Gordon, and, even though ignorant 
of the danger in which Lloyd and Dennys were 
placed, he was resolved Hickey should not long 
enjoy his liberty, if it could be prevented. 

Since we both have leave of absence, and it 
is yet early in the day, suppose we stroll to- 
gether ?” he said, with an assumption of care- 
lessness. I am hoping that it may be possible 
for me to fill the next vacancy in the Guards, 
and therefore it is well that I have an 
acquaintance with those who may soon be 
comrades.” 

Hickey, believing his work had been well 
accomplished, and not caring to return to the 
ship immediately, saw no reason why he should 
not do as Stubbs suggested, therefore assented 
to the pro^^osition, and the two, arm in arm. 


174 


A TORY PLOT. 


went down Bridge Street to Broad and thence 
to the Sign of The Ship, which at that time 
was much frequented by soldiers in the Con- 
tinental army. 

Stubbs had much to say during the short 
walk of his desire to become a G-uardsman ; but 
Hickey’s mind was so filled with thoughts of 
the triumph in thus having, to his own satisfac- 
tion at least, proven the boys to be spies, that 
he could not join heartily in the conversation, 
all of which but served to strengthen the sus- 
picions already formed in his companion’s 
mind. 

On arriving at the’ inn, Stubbs, with the air 
of a roisterer, insisted upon ordering refresh- 
ments, and in every possible way played the 
part of host, with the one hope in his mind 
that he might soon meet with comrades whom 
he could trust. 

It was yet too early in the day, however, to 
see many of the patrons of The Ship,” and 


A TORY PLOT. 


175 


when the two had spent an hour they were still 
the only soldiers in the place. 

The time had not been wasted, however, so 
far as Stubbs was concerned, for during it he 
gained a reasonably good idea regarding the 
condition of affairs. Hickey, his mind ever on 
the one subject, could not refrain from leading 
the conversation up from time to time to the 
previous evening, when Stubbs had met the 
boys, and the more of the landlord’s strong ale 
he consumed, the more persistent was he in this 
matter, until it would have been a dull man in- 
deed who could not have guessed somewhat of 
the situation. 

What it might be Stubbs could accomplish 
he did not know ; neither was it possible to 
say whether he would be aiding the boys by 
coming to an open rupture with this Guards- 
man, or do them yet greater injury ; yet he was 
determined that the traitor should not leave 
him while it could be prevented. 


176 


A TORY PLOT. 


As if overburdened with money he played 
the part of host in the most generous fashion, 
and just when Hickey began to show signs of 
wanting to part company with his entertainer, 
half a dozen American soldiers entered, and 
fortunately, among them were two well known 
to Stubbs. 

These newcomers joined the two at the 
table, and now that Hickey could not well take 
his departure immediately, the man who was 
doing his utmost to aid the prisoners on board 
the Duchess of Gordon, said to one of his com- 
rades but lately arrived : 

If it so be you are minded, David, I would 
close that transaction here and now, for we may 
not have as convenient an opportunity.” 

At the same moment, unperceived by the 
others, he made an expressive gesture to his 
friend, and rose from the table, stepping a few 
paces away. 

The man whom he had called David fob 


A TORY PLOT. 


177 


lowed, and once they were beyond earshot of 
the merry-makers, Stubbs whispered hur- 
riedly : 

“This man, Hickey, as I have good reason 
for knowing, since my being detailed on special 
duty, concerns him, is up to much mischief. I 
do not dare come to an open rupture with him ; 
but if you will contrive a plan whereby he can 
be held in custody for a few hours, I am 
answerable for it that you shall win the grati- 
tude of General Putnam.” 

“ Are you certain of your ground, Paul ? 
This Hickey is one of Washington’s Guards.” 

“ That I well know, David ; but yet he must 
be held prisoner in some way until I can have 
speech with the general.” 

“ All that may be easily come at if you 
pledge your word that I shall be held blameless 
in the matter.” 

“ I can guarantee you will receive thanks, if 
no more, from the general.” 


178 


A TORY PLOT. 


Then watch well the opportunity. I will 
engage Hickey in conversation, and the odds 
aTe in favor of my exciting his anger. After 
that it will not be difficult to raise a brawl, dur- 
ing which you cry loudly for the watch, and 
once they have come, charge both Hickey and 
myself with raising a disturbance. It appears 
to me that should answer your purpose.” 

“ So it will, David, and a rare good plan it is. 
Set about it at once, for he has already shown 
signs of being ready to depart.” 

David returned to his seat at the table, and 
Paul, on the pretense of a breath of fresh air, 
went to the door, where he stood looking up 
and down the street, intending to hail one of 
the watch or the patrol, whichever he should 
first see. 


A TORY PLOT. 


179 


CHAPTER VIII. 

THE ESCAPE. 

Paul Stubbs was taking an unwarranted 
degree of authority upon himself in thus plan- 
ning to make of Thomas Hickey a prisoner, and 
should it be learned that his suspicions were 
unfounded he would be placed in a most 
serious position. 

All this he understood full well, and had it 
been possible to have made certain Hickey 
would remain in the city two or three hours 
longer, Stubbs would first have searched for the 
young spies, because as yet he could not say 
positively that they were in the hands of the 
English. 

As it was, however, he argued with himself 


180 


A TORY PLOT. 


that it were better to make a mistake by show- 
ing too much zeal so far as this Guardsman was 
concerned than, by delay, increase the possible 
danger which menaced the boys. 

He had been standing in the doorway of the 
inn no more than two or three minutes when 
he saw a squad of men in charge of a sergeant 
coming down the street. 

He recognized these approaching soldiers, 
who were acquaintances of his, and should there 
arise any good cause for taking into custody 
the inmates of the inn, Stubbs knew beyond a 
peradventure they would be held securely until 
morning at the very least. 

He heard his friend David’s voice raised 
high and in angry tones. A quarrel was be- 
ing provoked ; but the squad was likely to pass 
before it amounted to a disturbance, and Stubbs 
took it upon himself to halt them. 

“I may as well be hanged for a sheep as a 
lamb,” he said to himself, and if the arrest of 


A TORY PLOT. 


181 


Hickey is a mistake, then it is likely to be no 
more serious if I enlist these men in my be- 
half.” 

The sergeant stepped forward a few paces 
when the squad had come to a standstill, and 
Hickey said to him hurriedly : 

^‘You know that I have been on duty at 
General Putnam’s headquarters?” 

Ay, and why are you now in citizen’s cloth- 
ing?” 

‘^Because of having been detailed to such 
work as would scarce permit the wearing of a 
uniform. There is in the tavern here a certain 
Guardsman who, for reasons which I cannot ex- 
plain to you now, but will later, should be kept 
in custody at least so long as it will require me 
to make a report. There is like to be a 
disturbance within a few moments, and you 
will win the thanks of General Putnam by 
waiting here until it becomes necessary to take 
the quarrelsome soldiers to the guardhouse. 


182 


A TORY PLOT. 


Once there I ask, if it be possible, that you 
make it your personal duty to see that the 
Guardsuian is not released until after I come to 
you from the general with orders regarding 
him.” 

^'But I have no right to loiter here on the 
street,” the sergeant said in perplexity. “If 
there was a brawl it would be my duty to 
enter and take away any of our men who might 
be there.” ' 

The sergeant had no more than ceased speak- 
ing when there was a loud angry shout from 
within, mingled with sounds as if the table had 
been overturned, and the voice of the landlord 
could be heard calling loudly for the watch. 

“You had not long to wait,” Stubbs said in 
a tone of satisfaction. “ One of the brawlers is 
a Guardsman by the name of Hickey. He is 
the man whom General Putnam would have 
detained on some such pretext as this until I 
can speak with you again.” 


A TORY PLOT. 


183 


The sergeant made no delay now that his 
duty called him into the tavern; but Paul 
Stubbs did not think it necessary he should fol- 
low. 

Standing in the doorway nearby, where he 
could see all that took place without being ob- 
served, the soldier waited until the squad came 
out with two prisoners, one of whom was, as a 
matter of course, Hickey, and the other Stubbs’ 
friend, David, who by thus doing a favor for a 
comrade was like to spend the remainder of the 
day in the guardhouse. 

As soon as the disturbers of the peace had 
been marched away the soldier who was bent 
on aiding the young spies went with all speed 
toward General Putnam’s headquarters, and 
arriving there, had the good fortune to find the 
commander disengaged for the moment. 

Hurriedly Stubbs told the little which he 
knew and explained his suspicions, saying in 
conclusion : 


184 


A TORY PLOT. 


“If these lads have gotten into trouble it is 
because their purpose has been discovered, and 
you know well, sir, that those who are plotting 
against the commander-in-chief would not hesi- 
tate to take the lives of two boys.” 

“ You speak truly, Stubbs, and have shown 
commendable tact in thus disposing of the 
Guardsman. I will see to it that he be not re- 
leased until you have had time to make all the 
necessary investigations. Should you need 
assistance, come here at once ; but be absolutely 
positive of your ground before taking such steps 
as might cause it to be suspected that we are in 
possession of the facts concerning the plot. In 
other words you have simply to busy yourself 
with finding the lads, or discovering their 
whereabouts.” 

Stubbs did not wait for further instructions. 
He understood how precious the time might be 
just then, and hurried away to make certain 
Lloyd and Dennys were not in the city. 


A TORY PLOT. 


185 


He was not ignorant as to where they lived ; 
but believed something might be learned con- 
cerning them from the boatman, Caleb Billings, 
and toward Whitehall Slip he went with all 
decent speed. 

During the previous day when he had lounged 
in that vicinity waiting for the lads, and thereby 
was the indirect means of causing their arrest, 
he had seen the old man near the boats, and 
therefore was acquainted with his face. 

On this morning Billings was seated on an 
upturned cask some distance aloof from those 
who plied their calling as boatmen in that 
vicinity, and on his countenance was an expres' 
sion of deepest anxiety. 

Stubbs noted this without giving particular 
heed to it ; but was so eager to conclude the 
work upon which he was engaged that he 
broached the subject nearest his heart, regard' 
less of whether the one whom he questioned 
was willing to give ear. 


A TORY PLOT. 


186 

“ Know you two lads, one called Lloyd Dacre 
and the other Dennys Howland ?” And so 
quickly and eagerly did Billings look up at 
him that he came nigh to starting in surprise. 

Have you heard aught of them ?” the boat- 
man asked sharply. 

^^Ay ; they be acquaintances of mine.” 

“And you are the man who loitered nearby 
here yesterday speaking with them after night- 
fall as they left this slip?” 

“I did hold brief converse with them last 
night ; but because of their haste to return 
home had not time to say all which was in my 
mind.” 

“You said enough, and it were better for 
them you had broken your neck before coming 
here.” 

This was spoken in an angry tone, and Stubbs 
was wholly at a loss to know the meaning 
of it. 

For a moment he forgot how ardent was his 


A TORY PLOT. 


187 


desire to learn where the boys might be, and 
looked inquiringly at the boatman. 

While one might have counted twenty, Bill- 
ings remained silent, gazing scrutinizingly at 
the man before him, and then said slowly : 

Ay ; 'you are like to have compassed their 
death by sheer foolishness.” 

“You must be crazy, otherwise you could 
not talk in such fashion.” 

“ I am not now, but shall be if matters pro- 
gress as they have begun. Hark you. Master 
Stubbs, for that be your name, if I am not mis- 
taken. May a man trust you with his liberty, 
perhaps his life, in order to save those two lads 
from death ?” 

Now it was the soldier began to understand 
somewhat of the thoughts in the old man’s 
mind, and he said earnestly : 

“If there be any assurance I can give you, 
speak and let it be arranged, for tliere is in my 
mind the thought that I can tell very nearly 


188 


A TORY PLOT. 


where those lads may be located at this mo- 
ment.” 

Yet by making it known to you I put my- 
self in the power of your officers, for I am fully 
aware you come from General Putnam’s head- 
quarters, since the boys themselves have said 
so. Not only that, but I am breaking an oath 
which may cost my life.” 

“I pledge, so far as man may, that those 
whom I serve will hold you blameless of what- 
ever plots or conspiracies you may have been 
engaged in, so that these boys be rescued, for I 
can quite well guess that they are on board 
the Duchess of Gordon with Governor 
Tryon.” 

Again Caleb Billings remained silent a mo- 
ment, and then asked, speaking slowly, as if 
weighing well every word : 

How much may you know of what I have 
been concerned in. Master Stubbs ? Nay, hesi- 
tate not, for by this time I understand why the 


A TORY PLOT. 


189 


lads were so eager to have the handling of the 
king’s gold ; and yet, although they were spy- 
ing upon me with the others, I would come 
nigh to laying down my own life to serve them, 
and it is in my mind that you have heard all 
they learned, else you would not have loitered 
here yesterday nor had speech with them last 
night, when to do so was dangerous for all con- 
cerned. Now I ask, as man to man, how much 
do you know of what I may have been con- 
cerned in?” 

Stubbs hesitated only the merest fraction of 
time, and then, reading in the old man’s face a 
certain integrity of purpose, despite the fact 
that he was a conspirator against the colony, 
replied quietly : 

^^All which may have been told the boys* was 
repeated to me.” 

Then may we talk plainly. Master Stubbs. 
But first you must bear with me awhile, for if 
one returns who has been the prime cause of all 


190 


A TORY PLOT. 


this trouble, we shall have little opportunity of 
conversing privately together.” 

“You mean Thomas Hickey, the Guards- 
man ?” 

“Ay, and I see you are well informed.” 

“ Then you may rest easy in mind so far as 
he is concerned, for that man will not interrupt 
us this day.” 

“Has he been taken into custody?” Billings 
asked in alarm. 

“Only on the charge of taking part in a 
brawl at the Sign of the Ship. From what he 
said I had a suspicion that it was well he be de- 
prived of liberty for a certain number of hours.” 

“ It is well,” Caleb Billings said emphatically, 
“ for just so much more time is left at our dis- 
posal, if we would aid those who stand nigh to 
death.” 

“Have the lads been sentenced as spies, even 
though by no usages of war could they be so 
called?” 


A TORY PLOT. 


191 


It matters little whether they be called spies 
or traitors. Both were embarked in a certain 
venture, and it is believed would have betrayed 
their associates. Unless a rescue can be effected 
between now and sunrise to-morrow, I fear this 
is their last day on earth. By telling all I am 
putting myself in your power, and stand good 
show of being hanged by one party or the 
other.” 

believe. Master Billings, I can safely 
promise for the American commanders that no 
harm will come to you, because of having given 
me the information necessary, and it should not 
be difficult for you to escape those concerned in 
the conspiracy. Would you go yet further, and 
do what might be possible toward saving the 
lads ?” 

^^Ay, Master Stubbs; I would make the 
attempt, even though knowing it should cost my 
life ; for when I went into this venture it was 
made to appear as if a man who served the king 


192 


A TORY PLOT. 


might embark in it without fear of being called 
upon to do other than that which is honorable. 
When the business may not be done without 
the murder of children, Caleb Billings takes no 
further part in it, however many oaths he has 
given.” 

‘^The lads are on board the Duchess of 
Gordon ?” 

“Ay.” 

“ And you would be received by those who 
serve Governor Tryon should you present your- 
self there ?” 

“ That is as may be. Master Stubbs. It was 
last night, shortly after you had speech with 
the boys, that Hickey followed them, forcing 
them to go on board the ship on the charge of 
being spies. I went also, and there said all a 
man might — more than was wise under all the 
circumstances — in the behalf of the lads whom I 
come to know had been spying upon us. It 
seems that Hickey had seen them coming from 


A TORY PLOT. 


193 


General Putnam’s headquarters, and that fact, 
together with your loitering nearabout here un- 
til they arrived, was sufficient to prove their 
guilt. Now, because of what I said in their be- 
half, it is probable Master Smart would look 
with suspicion upon my coming to the ship un- 
less having been summoned.” 

Do you know when they expected Hickey 
would return?” 

am guessing that he came on shore in 
search of further evidence, counting on going 
back so soon as he had secured it.” 

^‘We could not make an attack upon the 
ship,” Stubbs said half to himself, hearing 
which. Master Billings said : 

doubt much whether the leaders of the 
American army would do such a thing, even 
though they had the power; but there is no 
need that we should discuss such a matter, for 
where is the craft that could make an attack 
upon the ship with any hope of success ?” 


194 


A TORY PLOT. 


Stubbs bad not realized until tbe old man 
spoke bow useless it would be to attempt a 
rescue by force; but now that be understood 
tbe matter, it was as if hope well-nigb departed, 
and be asked mournfully : 

Can you tbink of any way. Master Billings, 
by which our purposes might be accomplished ?” 

have been figuring on the matter since 
leaving tbe Duchess of Gordon last night, and 
am no nearer tbe end of it than when I began. 
There is this much certain to my mind, however : 
They are not in danger of death before to- 
morrow morning, and what is done must be 
carried out after night comes. I had in mind to 
go to the fathers of these lads, telling them all 
I knew, and then came the thought that they 
could do nothing, eveh though standing high 
among the Eoyalists of the city, for Governor 
Tryon will never allow them to leave the 
Duchess of Gordon alive with knowledge of 
the plot in their possession” 


A TORY PLOT. 


195 


And it seems well-nigh useless for you and 
I to undertake anything by ourselves. We can 
get aid from headquai'ters, if soldiers would be 
of benefit.” 

Two could accomplish more than a dozen, 
therefore we had best work alone after a plan 
has been formed. Sit you down, Master Stubbs, 
and while I remain here ready to receive any 
word which may come from the Duchess of 
Gordon, we two will put our minds to studying 
out how far we might hope to go.” 

The hours passed until noon. More than 
once did Paul Stubbs believe he had hit upon 
a scheme which might result favorably for their 
purpose ; but the boatman was not satisfied 
with any of the suggestions which were pro- 
posed for his consideration. 

Then, when it seemed to the soldier as if 
they must abandon all attempts of working un- 
aided, Caleb Billings gave words to the plan 
which he had evolved in his mind, and it seemed 


196 


A TORY PLOT. 


a good one, althougli depending largely upon 
chances. 

What it was had best be told later while 
describing the course of events. 

Having repeated it twice over to his com- 
panion, he said, as if a great weight had been 
taken from his mind: 

We will pin all our faith on that, and trust 
to accident for the balance. Instead of loiter- 
ing here, you had best go away, lest some one 
from the ship grows suspicious at seeing me 
hold too long a conversation with you. Return 
at sunset, and we will make the venture, which, 
if not successful, is like to cost me my life, 
while you may look forward to a long stay in 
the king’s prisons.” 

The two parted, Stubbs going directly to No. 
1 Broadway, where he related all the events of 
the morning to General Putnam, and received 
from that officer the assurance that Hickey 
should be kept in close confinement, even 


A TORY PLOT. 


197 


though it becanle necessary to chaige him then 
and there with conspiring against the life of the 
commander-in-chief. 

It was not yet sunset when Stubbs returned 
to Whitehall Slip, and then the citizens were in a 
ferment, for it was told openly ai*ound the town 
that no less a personage than Mayor Matthews 
had been arrested, charged with a conspiracy to 
kill General Washington; that Gilbert Forbes, 
the gunsmith, was in prison, and with him no 
less than twelve prominent Koyalists. 

The people were in the highest state of ex- 
citement. Those who had more or less knowd- 
edge of the plot were trembling with apprehen- 
sion lest they should be taken into custody, and 
the innocent ones were alarmed because of not 
knowing just how far the conspiracy might be 
extended. 

Some feared an open battle in the city be- 
tween those who favored the king and the 
American forces, while others listened to rumors 


198 


A TORY PLOT. 


that all who had espoused the cause of the 
Colonists were to be murdered in cold blood, 
and such-like foolish tales were repeated from 
month to mouth until there was excitement, 
fear, disturbance, and almost panic among the 
citizens. 

‘‘Is it by making prisoners of these few that 
General Putnam thinks the lads may be aided 
Caleb Billings asked angrily when Stubbs 
stood before him. 

“The arrests have not been made because of 
them, although that which they learned first 
put the general on the track of getting im- 
portant information. These things would have 
been done this day, so I am assured, even 
though the boys were not in danger.” 

“It is like to upset all our plans,” the boat- 
man said moodily. “ While matters were quiet 
I had hopes ; but now it has been shown the 
plot is discovered, it stands to reason Governor 
Try on must put them out of the way in order 


A TORY PLOT. 


199 


to save those of the city who have been active 
in the matter.” 

“All that I grant you, Master Billings, and 
can but repeat that those arrests would have 
come at the same hour whether the boys were 
on board the Duchess of Gordon or safe at 
home. Surely you won’t go back now after 
having given your word to do what might be 
toward aiding them ?” 

“ I shall go forward. Master Stubbs, as 
agreed upon, although wdth many misgivings, 
for ii does not seem possible our plan can be 
carried out at this time.” 

Then Billings led the way toward his boat, 
and, after launching her, motioned for Stubbs 
to take his seat in the stern sheets. 

The two set out, Billings working at the 
oars, and when his companion would have 
spoken he shook his head angrily in token that 
he was not in a mood for conversation. 

Night had fully come before the voyage was 


200 


A TORY PLOT. 


at an end, and not until they were nearly within 
hailing distance of the Duchess of Gordon did 
Billings speak. 

Then it was to say : 

‘^It is time you laid down in the bottom of 
the boat, and remember that should we succeed 
in getting the boys aboard, and I am detained, 
you will pull off without me.” 

surely shan’t do so until a reasonable time 
has been spent in waiting.” 

^‘That was what you agreed upon at the first, 
and you must hold to it, otherwise it were best 
we abandon the effort. There is no hope, even 
if we get them out of the berth, that they can 
be absent many moments before being discov- 
ered, and it is better they escape than that you 
run the risk of trying to aid me, if it so be I 
have fallen into difficulties.” 

Stubbs made no reply to this. He under- 
stood that discussion would be worse than use- 
less, for the old man was fully determined upon 


A TORY PLOT. 


201 


his course of action, and arguing with him 
might be to provoke the abandonment of the 
plan. 

Lying at full length in the bottom of the 
boat, underneath the thwarts, Stubbs was fully 
concealed from view, and when the little craft 
was hailed by the sentry on board the Duchess 
of Gordon, the latter would have needed sharp 
eyes to make out that the craft had more than 
one occupant. 

“ Boat ahoy !” came the hail, and Caleb Bill- 
ings answered it by saying in a low tone : 

I would have speech with Master Smart.” 

The man whom Governor Tryon had dele- 
gated as manager of the plot against General 
Washington was on deck, most like waiting 
impatiently for news from the city, and the 
old boatman’s reception was unusually frank 
and cordial. 

“I have been hoping you would come, Bill- 
ings,” Master Smart said eagerly, as he advanced 


202 


A TORY PLOT. 


toward the rail. have heard somewhat 

of the way affairs are going in the city and 
would know more.” 

I cannot know worse,” Billings replied 
moodily, as he made the boat fast, taking good 
care to give her sufficient length of painter, so 
that she might float down near about the port- 
hole opening from the berth which he had 
visited when he last saw the boys. 

When Caleb gained the deck he was sur- 
rounded by a group of officers, eager to hear all 
he might tell, and during ten minutes or more 
the old man was forced to answer their many 
questions. 

Then he was summoned below, as Stubbs, 
from his place of concealment, understood by 
the sound of his voice. 

Meanwhile to the prisoners the hours had 
passed slowly and yet swiftly— slowly when 
they looked forward to hearing something which 
might give promise of hope, and swiftly as both 


A TORY PLOT. 


203 


realized that when another day dawned they 
might be summoned to their death. 

Only once since they had been confined in 
this berth did Master Smart visit them, and 
then his words were few and without cheer. 

He gave the lads to understand that they had 
forfeited their lives by violating their oaths, 
and that there was little hope the punishment 
would be delayed. 

Therefore it was that when this night came 
Lloyd and Dennys had believed the supreme 
moment was not far off, and as the door was 
opened neither looked up, for so great was their 
despondency that it did not seem possible cheer- 
ing news could come to them. 

An exclamation of surprise burst from the 
lips of both, when Billings said in almost a 
whisper : 

^‘Now has come the time to look alive, lads. 
It may be possible you can escape from here 
through yonder porthole. If you can force 


204 


A TORY PLOT. 


your bodies out, have no fear about the rest, for 
my boat lies directly underneath, and in her is 
Stubbs waiting to receive you. Move lively 
after I am gone, and remember it is better to 
be shot down while trying to escape than 
remain here to be hanged.” 

As he said this Billings turned to go, and the 
boys, catching him by the arm, would have 
detained him with questions but that he said 
hurriedly : 

It is dangerous for me to stay longer, lads. 
I only gained permission to come here for three 
minutes, pleading that I should at least be 
allowed to bid you good-by, and to linger would 
be to bring suspicion upon the whole plan. Im- 
mediately the door is locked behind me, set 
about forcing your bodies through the port- 
hole ; delay not a single instant, for every second 
is precious.” 

Then Caleb Billings went out from the room 
with his head bowed like one in deep distress, and 


A TORY PLOT. 


205 


motioned for the man who had followed to give 
him admission to the prisoners, that the inter- 
view was at an end. 

This done he went on deck, and no sooner had 
he appeared than he was again surrounded, as 
he had counted would be the case, by those who 
were eager to learn all the particulars concern- 
ing the events of the afternoon in the city. 

In a seemingly careless manner Billings led 
them to that side of the ship opposite where the 
boys were confined, and while the ofiScers stood 
in a group about him, the men were clustered 
as near as regulations would permit, in the hope 
of catching a word now and then. 

Billings took especial pains to make his story 
entertaining, and, while he talked, scuffled back 
and forth as one who is exceedingly nervous 
might do hoping that this slight noise would 
serve to drown any sound which the boys might 
make while effecting their escape. 


306 


A TORY PLOT. 


CHAPTER IX. 

FREEDOM. 

During perhaps ten seconds after Billings 
thus hurriedly left them the boys stood looking 
inquiringly at each other as if it was impossible 
for them to realize what he had said. 

For several hours before his coming hope had 
abandoned them, and in the future they saw 
nothing save a disgraceful death, for both under- 
stood full well that the Americans could not, 
within the short time at their command, do any- 
thing toward effecting their release by force. 

They were preparing themselves for what 
seemed to be the inevitable when the boatman 
entered, and now that he had gone, so quickly 
after speaking those words which savored of 
freedom, it was diflScult to believe he had really 


A TORY PLOT. 


207 


visited them — that it was not a dream conjured 
up by their desires. 

Then suddenly, as if he had but that moment 
understood the words Billings spoke, Lloyd 
peered out through the porthole. 

The night was black because of the clouds 
which obscured even the sky, and only after 
much scrutiny was it possible for him to dis- 
tinguish the outlines of a boat lying close along- 
side the ship directly beneath his head. 

He stepped back for an instant, and whispered 
excitedly to his comrade : 

“It is all true, Dennys. For the moment I 
believed Caleb Billings must have lost his 
senses, but he has been working for our release, 
even though we spied upon him with the knowl- 
edge that mayhap our labors might bring him 
to the gallows.” 

“Is the boat really there?” Dennys asked in 
a voice so tremulous that the words were indis- 
tinct. 


208 


A TORY PLOT. 


It is there, and we may escape even at the 
moment when it seemed all hope was lost.” 

“ Since noon I have been thinking that I 
would drop myself out of that porthole before 
daylight lather than allow them to kill me,” 
Dennys said thoughtfully, making no move to- 
ward compassing his escape. “If we should be 
killed now, while attempting to flee, it would 
be better than to remain here until they led us 
on deck to be hanged.” 

“ Why do you talk of this now ?” Lloyd cried, 
speaking incautiously loud in his impatience and 
eagerness as he shook his comrade by the shoul- 
der to arouse him to a sense of the present. 
“ We cannot afford to linger here. Go first, 
and I will follow if you succeed in getting 
through.” 

“ It may be possible there will be no time for 
you to come — some one may see me and give 
the alarm, and I will not leave you behind.” 

“If we should be discovered, make every 


A TORY PLOT. 


209 


effort to escape regardless of me, for it is better 
one go free than both be killed.” 

Dennys insisted that he would not lead the 
way lest by some unfortunate accident they 
should be separated and Lloyd forced to remain 
behind ; but his comrade was not in the mood 
to spend precious moments discussing the mat- 
ter. 

^^You shall go first,” he whispered vehe- 
mently, and without more ado pushed Dennys 
toward the porthole, and would have raised 
him up but that the latter said : 

will obey since you insist upon it so 
strongly; but you cannot aid me in such 
fashion. Wait until I shall have gotten part 
way through, and then hold on to my feet lest 
I fall headlong.” 

It was by no means a simple matter for the 
lad, small though he was, to force himself 
through the aperture which was seemingly not 
large enough to permit of the passage of a child; 


210 


A TORY PLOT. 


but when one is struggling to save his own life 
he can do many things which under other cir- 
cumstances would seem impossible. 

Regardless of the pain or of the fact that his 
clothing was being nearly stripped from his 
body — thinking only of that which was to be 
gained, the boy twisted, turned and pulled 
until the escape was so nearly accomplished 
that he was hanging head down against the 
side of the ship, while Lloyd held him by the 
feet. 

Now was come the moment when it seemed 
to both the boys that they must betray their 
purpose, for the distance from the porthole to 
the skiff below was double the length of 
Dennys’ body, and had there been none in the 
boat he must perforce have dropped headfore- 
most, by which means a noise unquestionably 
sufficient to alarm those on deck would have 
been made. 

Thanks to Caleb Billings’ precautions, how- 


A TORY PLOT. 


211 


ever, Stubbs was there to receive the fugitive, 
and Dennys’ surprise was great when the soldier, 
reaching forward, grasped him by the shoulder, 
lowering him gently into the craft. 

The boy would have spoken but that Stubbs’ 
hand was pressed firmly over his mouth, and in 
an instant he understood the necessity for 
silence. 

Then, motioning to the lad that he should 
fend the boat off lest she strike violently against 
the side of the ship, Stubbs stood upon the 
thwarts ready to receive Lloyd. 

The second prisoner occupied considerably 
more time in forcing his way outward than did 
the first ; but yet no more than sixty seconds 
had elapsed since the moment Dennys first be- 
gan his efforts at escape before the two were 
crouching in the bottom of the boat, free, yet 
not daring to believe it might be possible they 
could take advantage of their freedom. 

Now was come the time when Stubbs should 


212 


A TORY PLOT. 


have pushed off, according to the command 
given by Billings; but yet be lingered. 

The boatman’s voice could be heard now and 
then as he continued his recital of the startling 
events which had occurred in the city daring 
the afternoon, and the lads wondered why he 
lingered when it might reasonably be supposed 
their escape would be discovered within a few 
moments. 

All three were crouching in the bottom of 
the boat, not danng to sit or stand upright, 
lest they might be seen from the deck, and as 
they crouched thus closely together, Lloyd 
whispered: 

‘‘ Why. does Billings delay?” 

It was his intention to sacrifice himself for 
you lads in order that our plans might be more 
certain of success. He is talking with the crew 
of the ship, while thinking we are pulling 
away, and does so in the firm belief that his 
death will result.” 


A TORY PLOT. 


213 


“ But we must not leave him,” Dennys whis- 
pered excitedly. ^‘He shall not give himself up 
for us. What hinders his coming ?” 

Only that he believed by remaining on 
board there was less likelihood the Britishers 
would look for you.” 

Can you not summon him ?” 

No one knows he had a companion in the 
boat, and I dare not.” 

As a matter of fact Paul Stubbs had no idea 
what course to pursue. There was only in his 
mind the one thought that he would not desert 
this man who had been so faithful to the boys, 
even though he was concerned in the conspiracy 
against the commander-in-chief, and instead of 
casting the boat adrift he remained in painful 
indecision, expecting each moment to hear the 
alarm which should tell that the escape of the 
lads was discovered. 

Although anticipating such a signal he was 
surprised that it came so quickly. 


214 


A TORY PLOT. 


He had hardly ceased speaking to his com 
panions when a loud shout was heard from be- 
tween decks, followed by the hurried trampling 
of feet, and the trembling fugitives knew well 
its meaning. 

Now it would have been madness for Stubbs 
to hold the boat alongside another instant, and 
he cast olf the painter, allowing her to drift 
slowly astern. 

The uproar on the ship increased each sec- 
ond, and while the lads were yet within earshot 
they heard the order given to lower away the 
boats,” and almost at the same instant another 
voice cried: 

“ Where is Billings? Where is Billings? I 
am told he had permission to visit the prisoners 
a moment ago.” 

This question was no more than asked before 
a light splash on the water could be distin- 
guished amid the medley of voices, and Paul 
Stubbs whispered excitedly : 


A TORY PLOT. 


215 


“Billings has at last got his wits about him 
and is overboard. Get out the oars with as 
little noise as possible, lads, while I stand by to 
help the old man into the boat, or swim to his 
rescue if needed.” 

Even in the darkness, while obeying the 
order, Lloyd and Dennys could see the soldier 
hurriedly removing his clothing, and knew he 
would imperil his life to save that of the man 
who had afforded them such timely aid. 

Then came from the deck of the ship the 
command for the soldiers to fall in line along 
the starboard rail, and following it was heard 
the words, even before the men were in position : 

“ The prisoners are swimming ashore ! Look 
well about you, and fire at every suspicious 
object!” 

Eager to “deal death to a rebel,” the soldiers 
were more zealous than skillful, and the com- 
mand had hardly been given when a dozen or 
more muskets were discharged in a volley. 


216 


A TORY PLOT. 


The sudden and faint lighting up of the 
water from the flashes of the guns revealed to 
Stubbs the head of Billings, who was swim- 
ming with the current, knowing full well the 
boat must have drifted in that direction, and it 
also told the fugitive how near were friends. 

Even at this short distance the little boat 
must have been totally obscured from view of 
those on the ship by the dense darkness ; yet 
should a musket be fired astern there might be 
sufficient light from the burning powder to 
reveal the whereabouts of the swimmer, and in 
this did his greatest danger lie. 

Now it was when fortune had thus far favored 
those who would escape from Governor Try on’s 
clutches that she suddenly deserted them. 

Billings, through carelessness, or in a moment 
of weakness, splashed the water ever so lightly, 
but causing so much of noise as to warn those 
on the ship, Avho were listening intently in the 
hope that some such sound might be made. 



A scattering volley was sent toward the fugitives; the bullets singing 
directly above their heads.— Page 217. 




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A TORY PLOT. 


317 


Then came the command : 

“ Aft, aft, men ! Here is "one of your pris- 
oners ! Let two or three fire directly astern, 
and the others be ready to aim at whatsoever 
object they see.” 

Stubbs leaned over the bow of the boat, ready 
to catch the old man so soon as he should come 
near, while Lloyd and Dennys, each holding an 
oar, were prepared to pull at the first welcome 
word which told they were at liberty to seek 
safety in fiight. 

The order on the ship was obeyed. 

There came four flashes of light, and, dim 
though it was, the illumination sufficed to reveal 
the target. # 

There was little opportunity for accurate 
aim ; but the boat had been seen, and if the 
man in the water was not hit those who were 
ready to aid him might be disabled. 

Kow a scattering volley was sent toward the 
fugitives, the bullets singing directly above 


218 


A TORY PLOT. 


their heads, and, as it seemed to the lads, within 
a few inches ; buf fortunately no one was hurt, 
and while the soldiers were reloading their 
pieces the heavy splashing of water told that 
the boats had been lowered. 

“Now are we done for,” Lloyd heard Stubbs 
mutter, and then the little skiff rocked to and 
fro violently, as he seized Billings by the shoul- 
der, attempting to draw him over the rail. 

“ Have a care, or you will swamp the craft,” 
the boatman said, speaking with difficulty be- 
cause of his heavy breathing. “ Let me come in 
by the bow, and all will be well. It will be a 
sharp pull for us, if we get the best of those 
boats, ^ some of which will have twenty oars 
oat.” 

Now it was Lloyd and Dennys began 
their work, even before the old man was fully 
aboard, and, pulling the boat obliquely across 
toward the Jersey shore, that they might gain 
the full benefit of the current and at the same 


A TORY PLOT. 


219 


time creep away from what would naturally be 
supposed their direct course, they lay to their 
oars as only lads can who know life or death 
hangs in the balance. 

By the time Billings had scrambled in over 
the bow, Stubbs had taken his stat by the side 
of Dennys, and was adding his strength to that 
of the boys. 

Then the old man, who perchance, could have 
sent the craft ahead at as great speed as the 
three of them combined, laid hold with Lloyd, 
and the skiff sent the spray high above the bow 
as she dashed swiftly ahead under the impetus 
thus given. 

If the Duchess of Gordon was a man-of-war, 
instead of only an armed ship, our chances would 
be even smaller than they are,” Billings said 
after he had taken a dozen strokes. ‘^Sailors of 
the English navy would have launched their 
boats in less time than it took the redcoats to 
discharge their muskets; but these mongrels are 


220 


A TORY PLOT. 


not as ready, and it may be we shall give 
them the slip yet.” 

By this time the soldiers were firing again, 
and the tiny flashes of light were as useless as 
the bullets were harmless, for they illumined 
the water but a short distance from the ship, 
and only served to show to the fugitives in what 
direction the boats were proceeding. 

Now Billings urged the skiff further 
round toward the Jersey shore, as he whis- 
pered : 

Not a word now, and be careful how you 
use the oars. The Britishers are pulling straight 
down with the current, and once we can land 
all is well.” 

Freedom was not to be gained, however, with- 
out excessive labor, and, to all save Caleb Bill- 
ings himself, this strain at the oars with the full 
strength of every muscle, was exhausting ; but 
yet the boys held to the task knowing the re- 
ward to be gained, until under other circum- 


A TORY PLOT. 


221 


stances they must have dropped, literally insen- 
sible with fatigue. 

During what seemed a very long time could 
they hear the voices of the followers, and the 
shouts of command from one boat to another; 
but to cheer them was the knowledge that at 
each moment were the outcries growing fainter, 
telling that the pursued were on an entirely 
different course from that taken by the pur- 
suers. 

Not until it was no longer possible to hear a 
single voice did the old man suggest that the 
boys and Stubbs cease their rowing, leaving 
him to take care for the remainder of the flight. 

There is no need of overexerting ourselves 
now,” he said, speaking in a low tone. I will 
answer for it that none of those fellows overhaul 
us; but it stands to reason that other boats 
were sent out from the ship later, and we may 
come across them, even though it seems we are 
near to being safe.” 


222 


A TORY PLOT. 


AVhy not pull straight for the city ?” Stubbs 
asked. Once there I will answer for it the 
Britishers don't lay hands on us.” 

am allowing that the officers of that ’ere 
ship had sense enough to send some of the other 
boats to cut us off in that direction, and it would 
be putting our heads into the plainest kind of a 
trap if we were to make a try for the town.” 

“Where do you count on going just now ?” 

“AVewill land wherever we can, and after 
daylight comes, when it is possible to see 
whether enemies be about, then will be the time 
to make for the city. I was fearing you 
could not get through the portholes, lads.” 

“It was a hard squeeze,” Lloyd replied with 
a long-drawn sigh of relief; “but knowing what 
awaited us, if forced to remain on board the ship, 
we could have pulled through a smaller hole.” 

“ That I warrant you, lads, for a man may do 
many things when a rope from the yardarm is 
like soon to be around his neck.” 


A TORY PLOT. 


223 


Now it was Dennys bethought himself of 
what harm to the colony might result from this 
escape of theirs, and he asked tremulously : 

Is it possible the conspirators may attempt 
to carry out their plans since it is known we 
have had information concerning them ?” 

As one who was concerned in that same plot, 
I can answer you with a big ‘ no,’ ” Billings re- 
plied. From all I can hear some one else has 
forsworn himself by giving information regard- 
ing what would have been done, and no less 
than a dozen are already in jail.” 

When was that done?” Lloyd asked in sur- 
prise. 

“ Early this afternoon, and you may be sure 
that the excitement in the city is great. I am 
thinking one Caleb Billings will be looked for 
next. It is true I had not as important a part 
as Master Forbes, Master Matthews, or even 
Thomas Hickey ; but yet was I a go-between.” 

I have the same as Greneral Putnam’s word 


224 : 


A TORY PLOT. 


that any who might aid in this work should be 
rewarded,” Stubbs interrupted. You may be 
certain that Caleb Billings’ name will not be on 
the list of those who are searched after.” 

Of coui'se it could not be after what he has 
done,” Dennys said emphatically, and the old 
boatman replied as he shook his head slowly : 

“ When a man falls into evil ways, lads, he 
must pay the penalty, and I will not be feeling 
in any ways wronged if there is no account 
taken of this night’s work. I did all I might 
to save you two from death because, had you 
been hanged, in my mind the blood would have 
been on my own head. I want to say once 
more and for the last time, because I am not 
counting on pleading overly hard for mercy, 
that when I joined what you call the conspiracy 
it was with the belief that nothing dishonora- 
ble would be done. I never threw my lines in 
with the Colonists, for there was some among 
them that didn’t strike my fancy, and if the 


A TORY PLOT. 


225 


king could have put down the rebellion as a 
king should, in honorable warfare, I’d like to 
have seen it done. Now whether I go to jail, 
where I belong, or am allowed to run free, I 
shall take my stand among those who would 
make this country an independent nation.” 


226 


A TORY PLOT. 


CHAPTEE X. 

A STERN CHASE. 

That the fugitives believed they had given 
their enemies — and those on board the Duchess 
of Gordon could be called by no other name — 
the slip, was proven by the fact that even now, 
while hardly more than beyond hail of the 
armed ship, they indulged in conversation re- 
garding the future. 

Every occupant of Caleb Billings’ boat knew 
beyond a peradventure that his life was the for- 
feit of being taken prisoner ; for after having 
embarked in such a plot Governor Tryon w^ould 
not hesitate at hanging or shooting a dozen men 
rather than allow proof of his complicity to be 
made public. 


A TORY PLOT. 


227 


As a matter of fact, it had become necessary 
to the safety of no less than six hundred per- 
sons in New York that those who had taken 
part in the daring escape should be appre- 
hended, and the boys knew, as well as did Paul 
Stubbs and Caleb Billings, that every effort 
would be made to effect their capture ; but 
success had rendered them overconfident, and 
while yet within range of the king’s ship did 
they hold such converse as was best adapted to 
unquestioned safety. 

It was Lloyd who first called attention to the 
fact that it might be well to make certain they 
were no longer within the power of those who 
had a secret to guard ; and this he did by sug- 
gesting mildly, for it did not seem to him Tight 
he should appear as if dictating to men who had 
so recently saved his life : 

‘‘ Would it not be better that we made sure 
of gaining the shore on one side or the other be- 
fore speaking at any length? There are many 


228 


A TORY PLOT. 


in New York, who most likely have not as yet 
been suspected, who would aid Governor Tryon 
in capturing us, that their own safety might be 
assured ; and with so many enemies we are not 
safe until having gained a shelter among those 
of our own army who can be trusted.” 

“I reckon you may be right, lad,” Caleb 
Billings said with a sudden movement, as if he 
had but just come to view the matter in such a 
light. ^^If I stood in Governor Tryon’s shoes, 
every boat belonging to the Duchess of Gordon 
would be scouring these waters in search of 
us.” 

Although speaking in such a strain the old 
boatman did not take up the oars, and after 
waiting for him to set the example, Dennys 
asked-: 

^‘Why then do you remain idle, Master 
Billings ? Surely we are far from secure against 
pursuit, being not above half a mile from the 
ship.” 


A TORY PLOT. 


229 


can’t rightly answer that question, lad,” 
and the old man took up the oars mechanically, 
rather than with such a spirit as one would 
naturally expect him to display. I’ve done a 
power of thinkin’ aboard Governor Tryon’s ship 
this night, and much which seemed to me right 
twenty -four hours ago now looks like a crime. 
It may be well that I take my place among 
those who are likely to answer for their share 
in the plot, since my guilt is none the less than 
theirs.” 

^^Now you are talking that which is folly !” 
Paul Stubbs said sharply. ^‘But for your plan 
these boys would be very near death, with none 
to lend a helping hand ; and if such work as 
had been done since sunset doesn’t count, then 
are all of us like to be in hard lines when a 
final reckoning comes. I have Genera^, Put- 
nam’s word that whosoever should aid me in 
the work of rescuing them might go free, so far 
as the friends of freedom are concerned, and 


230 


A TORY PLOT. 


with that promise you have no reason to fear 
evil.” 

‘^I know in my heart, however, all that I 
might have had a hand in the doing; and it is 
not right one like me ' goes free when others, 
less guilty, are forced to suffer for the same 
crime.” 

The old boatman was laboring under a most 
severe attack from his conscience, and it might 
prove the undoing of all unless checked without 
loss of time ; for it was necessary his head should 
be clear if the late prisoners on board the Duch- 
ess of Gordon escaped those who were most 
eager to silence their tongues. 

All this Paul Stubbs understood full well, as 
indeed did the boys ; and he set about the task 
knowing it must be accomplished in the least 
possible space of time. 

Of what avail is your remorse, Billings, if 
you suffer these lads to be made prisoners again ? 
You know full well that once we are overtaken 


A TORY PLOT. 


231 


every one will be silenced forever, and without 
loss of time, lest there should be an opportunity 
to bear witness against those who are now in 
custody.” 

“It is well I paid the penalty of my crimes,” 
the boatman replied moodily. 

“And in order to work out your own expia- 
tion, you propose that these lads and myself, 
who are innocent of the crime of conspiracy, be 
made to suffer with you ?” 

“ What more is it possible for a man to do ?” 
Billings asked, with a vacant stare. “ I was 
ready to sacrifice my life for them !” 

“ Ay, and worked the scheme like a man ; but 
have now turned child at the very moment when 
a clear head is needed. Make certain these lads 
are set ashore in safety, and then we will listen 
to your self-reproaches, feeling that they are 
sincere.” 

Even this failed to arouse the old man from 
the apathy into which he had so suddenly fallen ; 


232 


A TORY PLOT. 


and it is impossible to say what might have 
been the ending of the perilous venture but for 
a dangerous diversion which occurred at this 
moment. 

From out of the darkness came the creaking 
of oarSj and on the same instant could be heard 
the sound of voices in earnest conversation : 

“I tell you that an old boatman like Billings 
would not have attempted to pull straight for 
the town, more especially after the flashing of 
the muskets showed us his boat. He has 
turned and is making for the Jersey shore, or 
I’ll eat my head.” 

Then, and even while the fugitives sat motion- 
less, as if paralyzed by the imminence of the 
danger, another voice replied : 

‘‘Surely, we are come far enough in this direc- 
tion. There could have been no more than two 
pairs of oars in his boat, and we should have 
overhauled him by this time.” 

“Who can say that we are not already be- 


A TORY PLOT. 


233 


tweeD tliem and the shore ? The lives of many 
who have this day been put under arrest depend 
upon our efforts now ; and I am not minded to 
give over the pursuit while it seems possible we 
may yet overtake the spies and traitors !” 

^‘Keep on, then, until you have satisfied your- 
self that an old hand like our renegade boat- 
man needs only such darkness as this in order 
to give us the slip, and after that has been done 
we may consider our own positions. Even 
though on board the king’s ship, there will not 
be overly much safety for us once the people 
come to know that we would have killed or 
taken prisoner the general whom they worship.” 

As this last voice ceased the fugitives could 
see, hardly more than a dozen yards away, the 
outlines of a boat, and for the moment it ap- 
peared to Lloyd and Dennys as if there was 
little chance for their final escape. 

The occupants of the boat would shoot with 
intent to kill immediately after discovering 


234 


A TORY PLOT. 


them, and at such short range there was poor 
hope all the bullets might miss the target. 

It seemed almost as dangerous to take up the 
oars as to remain motionless, for the lightest 
noise would be heard by the pursuers ; and the 
two lads were literally frozen with fear until 
Master Billings, recovering his presence of mind 
with the knowledge that deadly danger was 
close at liand, took measures for their safety. 

The old man suddenly forgot the reproach- 
ings of his conscience in the realization that, 
perhaps, the lives of all his companions de- 
pended upon himself, and on the instant was 
once more the cool, calculating boatman. 

He had not shipped his oars when beginning 
the conversation, and now dipped them in the 
water so silently that it seemed even to the 
strained, eager ears of the two boys as if not 
the lightest sound was made, pulling with all 
his strength at right angles with the course of 
the oncoming boat. 


A TORY PLOT. 


235 


In a twinkling the pursuers were lost to view 
in the darkness; but certain it was that they 
had either seen or heard something which 
aroused suspicion, for immediately came the 
command, the words sounding clear and dis- 
tinct to Lloyd and Dennys as if they had been 
uttered by some one on board their own craft : 

“ Have a care ! Make ready ! Fire at the 
first sound or sight !” 

On the instant three muskets were discharged, 
apparently at random, for none of the balls came 
in the direction of the fugitives ; but the glare 
of the burning powder so illumined the scene 
that Billings’ boat stood out well defined. 

Now had the chase begun in earnest. The 
boat from the Duchess of Gordon, in command 
of one who understood full well how necessary 
it was the young spies should be captured, was 
not more than a dozen yards distant, and by 
firing a volley every moment it would be 
possible to keep the fugitives in view. 


236 


A TORY PLOT. 


^‘Pull for your lives!” Billings said in a 
hoarse whisper, and almost at the same instant 
could be heard the command of the king’s 
officer. 

Bend to your oars, men, and we’ll have 
them ! Beady with your muskets, and fire even 
at a shadow ; for it’s better to waste a little 
ammunition than allow the spies to escape us!” 

Nothing more was need to incite the fugitives 
to their utmost efforts; but even under the most 
favorable circumstance it did not seem possible 
they could make good their escape now that the 
enemy had discovered their whereabouts. 

Lloyd and Dennys were bending to one oar, 
while Paul Stubbs worked another, and Caleb 
Billings was giving evidence of his strength and 
endurance as he plied a pair, when the Biit- 
ishers fired another volley, thus lighting up the 
surrounding waters until both crafts stood out 
clear and distinct amid the darkness. 

^^Now that the target has been shown, you 


A TORY PLOT. 


237 


who have reserved your fire should be able to 
take aim,” the king’s officer in charge of the 
boat cried ; and had his previous orders been 
obeyed it is reasonable to believe the fugitives 
might have been disabled ; but, fortunately for 
those who were working against the plot, the 
soldiers had failed to execute the commands. 

Every man discharged his weapon at the 
same instant, and there were no loaded muskets 
left with which to take advantage of the oppor- 
tunity. 

A cry of anger from the British officer 
sounded like sweetest music in the ears of those 
who were so near death, and then came the 
sharply spoken order : 

^^Eeload ! Then, as soon as may be, let two 
fire in order to give us a glimpse of the boat, 
the others waiting until getting a view of the 
spies before discharging their muskets. By 
such means it should be possible to so cripple 
them that the chase cannot be prolonged,” 


238 


A TORY PLOT. 


Now, it seemed to Lloyd, had come the 
most dangerous moment, for if the soldiers 
carried out the order faithfully there was little 
chance it would be possible to avoid a disaster. 

^‘Pull, Dennys, pull !” he whispered hoarsely. 

It don’t stand to reason that we’ll have many 
more chances, and we must make the most of 
this !” 

It can well be understood that Dennys would 
have exerted ail his strength even without such 
reminder that death was very near; and, under 
the impetus of the fugitives’ united efforts, the 
little craft shot ahead like an arrow, swerved 
from the course by Billings, who swung h6r 
sharply around to starboard. 

The time necessary for the men to reload was 
sufficient to give the pursued a decided advan- 
tage in this renewal of the chase, for their boat 
had been pulled in a different direction, and 
when three of the soldiers fired there was noth- 
ing to greet their gaze. 


A TORY PLOT. 


239 


“ The rebels have swung around !” the British 
officer cried in a rage. Fire in the opposite 
direction !” 

The remainder of the squad obeyed this com- 
mand, and, as a matter of course, when the flash 
of their w'eapons revealed the fugitives, no one 
was able to take advantage of the sight. 

The officer discharged his pistol almost at 
random, and Billings said in a whisper, as he 
pulled the light skiff around on another course : 

^‘Now is our time ! Eow for your lives, an’ 
by the time those bunglers get ready to fire 
again we should be out of sight !” 

In this game of hide and seek each second was 
of greatest value, as the occupants of the skiff 
understood; and every muscle was strained to its 
utmost tension during the two or three moments 
while the soldiers were making ready for another 
effort. 

By this time the fugitives were so far away 
that the feeble glare fiom the discharge of the 


240 


A TORY PLOT. 


muskets failed to reveal them, and once more 
did it seem certain the escape had been accom- 
plished. 

“ Don’t slacken 3^our stroke,” Paul Stubbs 
whispered, after this last fruitless effort on the 
part of the enemy. “We can’t afford to take 
any chances now, but must make certain of 
giving them the slip !” 

Neither Lloyd nor Dennys had any idea of 
taking a rest while the Britishers were so near, 
and Master Billings had so far recc-vei’ed from 
his fit of despondency as to be in condition to 
take advantage of every opportunity the enemy 
might give him. 

The little skiff was forced through the water 
at a rate of speed which she had probably never 
equaled before, and far in the rear could be 
heard the king’s officer scolding his men for their 
stupidity. 

“ Shall we make a try for the New York 
shore?” Caleb Billings asked after a brief 


A TORY PLOT. 


241 


silence ; and Paul Stubbs replied in a tone of 
one who has taken command of the party : 

“It would be folly to attempt anything of the 
kind. There is no knowing how many who 
have been concerned in the plot are abroad this 
night aw^aiting an opportunity to hide their 
guilt by another crime, and we are not warranted 
in taking any chance. Let us make for the 
Jersey shore and there stop until daylight, when 
we can come across with less fear of an attack.” 

“Those who are leagued with Governor 
Trvon would not hesitate at making an attack 
even in the light of day,” Billings said grimly. 
“I never fully understood to what this plot 
might lead ; but now it doesn’t need that a man 
should have two eyes in order to know how 
desperate are become those who are yet at 
liberty.” 

“ We shall be in less danger during the day 
than in the darkness,” the soldier replied quickly. 
“Many a man would shoot us down when it 


242 


A TORY PLOT. 


might be done without witnesses, who would 
be harmless as a lamb while the sun was shin- 
ing. We’ll take our chances on the Jersey 
shore until after sunrise and then pull across 
as might any other honest citizen. Unless I’m 
much mistaken, the ringleaders in this plot will 
have been taken care of by that time, and we 
need have little fear concerning what the more 
timorous will try to compass.” 

It was reasonable to suppose that every boat 
belonging to the Duchess of Gordon was out 
searching for those who had escaped being 
murdered, and no one might say in which direc- 
tion they were, therefore no slight amount of 
caution was necessary, even now after it seemed 
as if the fugitives were safe from capture. 

Certain it was they could point out positively 
the location of one of the enemy’s boats, for the 
officer who had been so near taking them pris- 
oners continued to busy his men with loading 
and discharging their weapons in the hope, 


A TORY PLOT. 


243 


most likely, of discovering the spies by aid of 
the flashes of light, and it was only necessary 
they should give this craft a wide berth. 

If the others who are after ns would lose 
their heads as badly as that Britisher appears 
to have done, we need have little anxiety,” Paul 
Stubbs said, with a chuckle of satisfaction, and 
Caleb Billings did much toward allaying tlie 
fears of the boys by adding in a tone of convic- 
tion : 

I’ll go bail there is no one between here an’ 
the Jersey shore to trouble us. Any craft that 
was roundabout when the men began firing at 
me after I jumped overboard, would have pulled 
up to learn the meaning of the excitement, an’ 
them as remained away were friends, most 
likely; that is, if there were any afloat to 
remain away. It’s a case of rowing across at 
our own pace, so long as that crazy Britisher 
keeps on telling us where he is, an’ finding such 
a lodging there as seems most comfortable.” 


244 


A TORY PLOT. 


We were feeling quite as confident when 
yonder craft came within hailing distance, there- 
fore it is best not to crow until we are well out 
of the woods,” Lloyd suggested, and Dennys 
added, with a perceptible tremor in his voice : 

“ I had rather wait until we’re safe at home 
once more before bragging about being able to 
keep clear of the Britishers, and even then I 
shan’t feel any too secure, knowing as we do 
that five hundred or more citizens will charge 
us with being spies !” 

There is but one thing you lads can do, 
after this trouble is over,” Stubbs said quietly. 
Enlist in whatever branch of the service 
strikes your fancy, and then you’ll be among 
those who can appreciate the work you have 
done. Advancement should be rapid for such 
as you, and New York won’t be a pleasant 
abiding place for some time to come.” 

And if it so be they’re not ashamed to have 
me claim ’em as friends, I shall go with them,” 


A TORY PLOT. 


245 


Caleb BilliDgs said emphatically. I did think 
nothing would tempt me to enlist for a soldier ; 
but after this wickedness of mine it’s about the 
only way to prove myself an honest man. The 
city won’t be overly pleasant for me, after this 
night, especially if it should turn out as Master 
Stubbs has said, that my part in the plot is to 
be kept a secret, and I’d best follow them whose 
lives I’ve had a hand in saving.” 

Will you do it ?” Lloyd cried excitedly. 

Nothing could be better than that you signed 
the rolls with us, and if any reward is to be 
given in the shape of advancement, surely you 
should have a full share. Master Billings, be- 
cause, but for you, Dennys and I would either 
be dead at this moment, or so near the end as to 
be much the same thing.” 

“Think you that one who joined in a plot to 
capture the commander in chief would be 
allowed in the . army ?” the boatman asked of 
Paul Stubbs, and the latter replied heartily 


246 


A TORY PLOT. 


am certain of it. Once General Putnam 
learns that it is your desire to serve the Cause 
as a soldier, he will see to it every opportunity 
is otfered, and if it so chance you three enlist, 
in the company to which I belong, it shall be 
my care to make certain no man says in your 
hearing other than what is agreeable.” 

for one pledge my word on it,” Caleb 
Billings said, leaning forward with outstretched 
hand as if thus to ratify his promise. As soon 
as may be after we step foot on the New York 
side ril set my name down to serve so long as 
the colonists hold out against the king.” 

It was to all who had so lately been near unto 
death as if this agreement to become soldiers 
afforded a certain degree of security, and on the 
instant all grew more clieerful, seeming to see 
promise in the future of safety, and freedom 
from fear that those who had been in the plot, 
bnt were not discovered, would work any in- 


A TORY PLOT. 


247 


Now it was that Caleb Billings headed his 
boat directly for the Jersey shore. 

Far away in the darkness could be seen now 
and then the flashing of the British soldiers’ 
muskets as they thus vainly attempted to illu- 
mine the waters, and there was no fear that par- 
ticular boat’s crew would be able to effect 
anything in the way of a capture. 

When the fugitives were arrived at the oppo- 
site bank, Paul Stubbs suggested that they 
make no effort at finding a lodging place 
during the short time of darkness which yet 
remained. 

‘^It must be within an hour of sunrise, and 
we may as well remain w’here we are,” he 
said. “ No great amount of repose can be 
gained by a short nap, and, feeling as I do at 
present, it w^ould be impossible to close my eyes 
in slumber while the width of the harbor sepa- 
rates me from those on whom I can rely.” 

His companions were in much the same way 


248 


A TORY PLOT. 


of thinking, and therefore it was that the little 
party remained in Caleb Billings’ boat, or 
walked on the shore now and then within hail, 
until the sun showed his face above the eastern 
horizon. 

Lloyd and Dennys were eager to set out im- 
mediately the new day had dawned ; but the 
soldier and the boatman objected to such an 
early start, arguing that safety would best be 
assured by waiting until the harbor was well 
filled with craft, and among them boats sent out 
by General Putnam to search for the missing 
ones, when there was little fear Governor Tryon 
would dare proceed to extremities. 

Therefore it was that they remained partially 
screened by the foliage until fully seven o’clock 
in the morning, when, to the great relief of 
Lloyd and Dennys, Master Billings gave the 
signal to begin the return journey, by saying : 

“ If we can’t get across safely now, it can 
never be done ; so let’s make the try, lads.” 


A TORY PLOT. 


249 


CHAPTER XL 

SAFE. 

It can well be imagined that from the mo- 
ment the light of the morning sun illumined 
the waters, Caleb Billings and his companions 
kept a sharp lookout on the Duchess of Gordon, 
which ship lay two miles or more away. 

It was not possible to say, from that distance, 
what was being done on the decks of the king’s 
vessel ; but the watchers were able to determine 
whether any boat came to or went from her to 
the city, and thus might they form a reasonably 
coiTect conclusion as to whether the conspira- 
tors were in such frame of mind as to make 
an attempt at capture in the open day. 

All the boats are hoisted inboard, an’ it looks 


250 


A TORY PLOT. 


much to me as if Governor Tryon had got things 
into shape for runnin’ away in case the Conti- 
nentals can muster force enough to attack the 
Duchess/’ Caleb Billings said, after a long sur- 
vey of the armed ship. “Accordin’ to my 
thinkin’, he ain’t feelin’ over an’ above comfort- 
able in mind just at this time ; an’ I’ll warrant 
he don’t dare send a boat’s crew after us, how- 
ever near we might pull toward him.” 

One would have said that the king’s vessel 
was ready to get under way at a moment’s 
notice, and it was observed, during such time as 
the fugitives watched her, that no boat ap- 
proached from the city. 

“ Those who were concerned in the plot, and 
yet remain at liberty, are keeping under cover,” 
Paul Stubbs said in a tone of satisfaction. “I'll 
warrant we won’t see one of them for some days 
to come, unless it be that they visit headquar- 
ters for the purpose of making it appear they 
are true to the cause.” 


A TORY PLOT. 


251 


Lloyd and Dennys did not take part in such 
speculations. Both the lads were thinking of 
their parents, knowing full well in what distress 
of mind they were. 

Not since gaining permission to act the part 
of spies had the boys returned home, and certain 
it was that many in the city realized the peril 
to which they were exposed ; therefore in at 
least two households did grief and anxiety reign, 
not to be lessened until it was known beyond a 
peradventure that Governor Tryon had lost his 
prisoners. 

Had the lads been consulted, they would have 
declared in favor of pill ling across to the city 
when the day first dawned, regardless of possi- 
ble danger; but neither Caleb Billings nor Paul 
Stubbs were of the mind to take any unneces- 
sary risks ; and the little boat lay half concealed 
among the foliage on the Jersey shore until the 
old boatman announced that the passage might 
be attempted. 


252 


A TORY PLOT. 


Once the fugitives were afloat again, and 
forced to row within plain sight of their ene- 
mies, it is safe to say that not one of them, 
breathed freely until they had passed the Duch- 
ess of Gordon, nearing the fort. 

Only then did either member of the party 
speak, and Dennys, drawing a long breath of 
relief, exclaimed: 

“It begins to seem as if we might get home 
in safety, and how good it will be ! Death has 
been so near since Hickey took us prisoners that 
it is almost as if we had been in the grave and 
were come to life again.” 

“ That’s mighty ni^li what it amounts to, 
lads,” Caleb Billings replied emphatically^ 
“ When Master Stubbs first hailed me, I al- 
lowed there was nobody in this ’ei-e colony as 
could save you.” 

“ Except yourself,” Lloyd said feelingly ; “ and 
certain it is that you risked everything to lend 
a helping hand ” 


A TORY PLOT. 


253 


Considerin’ that I’d been concerned in the 
plot, it wasn’t very much to take my life in my 
hands, for bein’ shot while try in’ to escape from 
his majesty’s officers would Lave been an easy 
death compared with bein’ hanged.” 

^^Both those dangers are passed now, my 
friend,” Paul Stubbs said heartily, observing 
that the old man was relapsing into despondency 
again. ^‘It wdll never be known, save by those 
concerned in the plot, that you ever dreamed of 
working an injury to the colonies, and that I’ll 
answer for on the word of General Putnam.” 

We’ll trust so. Master Stubbs — we’ll trust 
so,” the old man replied with a sigh ; “but yet 
there’s not overly much hope in ray mind just 
now. An old fellow like me, without influence 
and of no weight in the city, stands a good 
chance of being made to bear the biggest por- 
tion of others’ sins ; and certain it is some one 
must be punished for the plot, if for no other 
reason than to prevent its being tried over again.” 


254 


A TORY PLOT. 


There was no further opportunity to cheer 
the repentant man, for by this time the occu- 
pants of the boat had been recognized by 
several among the large throng of people that 
lined the harbor front in the immediate vicinity 
of the fort, and a great shout went up, as if the 
coming of these men and boys gave joy to all. 

^‘They have mistaken us for others; but who 
of so much importance has been missing from 
the city ?” Dennys asked in perplexity. 

None but yourselves, lads,” Paul Stubbs 
replied, whereat Dennys’ bewilderment became 
greater than before. 

‘‘There are few who know us, and I’ll answer 
for it that the people wouldn’t put themselves 
(Dut to any extent for such as Lloyd and me.” 

“ That’s where you are mistaken, my boy,” the 
soldier I’eplied with a laugh. “Listen, and you 
will understand that all these people have 
gathered here especially to learn if you have 
come safely away from the Duchess of Gordon.” 


A TORY PLOT. 


255 


The boys were silent for an instant, during 
which time they heard their names repeated 
again and again, until there could be no ques 
tion as to the truth of Paul Stubbs’ statement. 

I don’t understand it !” Lloyd exclaimed. 

It is easy of explanation. There can be no 
question but the people understand by this time 
that a plot has been discovered against General 
Washington, and you were concerned in the 
unearthing of it. I have no doubt but that it 
was well known you had been carried by force 
on board the Duchess of Gordon, and the 
citizens are anxious concerning youi* safety.” 

‘^If that much is public news, then it must 
be known that I should be blamed for their 
danger,” Caleb Billings muttered half to him- 
self; and at that very instant could be heard the 
cry from those on shore : 

The boatman has not onl}^ saved them, but 
his own life ! That is the man, he who pulls 
the after oars ! Huzza for Billings !” 


256 


A TORY PLOT. 


“ There is your answer,” Paul Stubbs said 
with a laugh. You can well understand now 
that Genera] Putnam has kept his word, and 
none of those eager ones so much as suspect 
that you had any hand in the danger which 
menaced the lads.” 

Five minutes later the boat’s bow was run 
up on the sand near the fort, and a liundred or 
more excited citizens clustered around as the 
little party stepped ashore, each man eager to 
clasp by the hand those who had escaped from 
their enemies. 

Early though the hour was, before having 
gotten so far as Bowling Green the fugitives 
were literally surrounded by a throng of people, 
and Caleb Billings received good proof that his 
name had not been given out as being among 
the conspirators, when both men and women 
thanked him and Stubbs again and again for 
the heroic part they had taken in rescuing the 
lads. 


A TORY PLOT. 


257 


Of Lloyd’s and Dennys’ reception at home 
there is no reason why any word should be 
written. One can well imagine the warmth of 
atfection with which they were greeted, after 
understanding that their danger had been 
known to all. 

It is enough to say that they went to their 
parents without loss of time, immediately it was 
possible to free themselves from the citizens 
who seemed to think it a bounden duty to offer 
congratulations; and when the lads parted from 
Paul Stubbs and Caleb Billings, it was with 
the knowledge that the old boatman would 
remain with the soldier until such time as some 
definite arrangements could be made concerning 
his future welfare. 

As to all the details of the plot against the 
commander in chief of the American forces, the 
success of which might have ended the war for 
liberty ere yet it was well begun, it is not 
necessary here to speak, since historians have 


258 


A TORY PLOT. 


dealt with it fairly, and at length. It is only 
the purpose of this tale to show that the first 
intimation which was had of the conspiracy came 
from these two lads who have figured here, and 
not solely from that member of Washington’s 
guard who, growing timorous, revealed the part 
he would have taken. 

It is impossible, owing to lack of authentic 
detail, to follow the fortunes of Lloyd and 
Dennys from the day they were received so 
warmly at Bowling Green by the citizens of 
New York, until they finally entered the Conti- 
nental Army as favored recruits; but among 
the material from which this tale has been 
woven is found an account of their doings on 
that 27th of June, when the loyal people as- 
sembled in “ a field near the Bowery ” to wit- 
ness the execution of Thomas Hickey for con- 
spiring to kill the commander of the American 
armies. 

There had been no public trial of the con- 


A TORY PLOT. 


259 


spirators ; in fact, the curious and excited public 
had not been allowed to know very much con- 
cerning the plot, lest a knowledge that such a 
crime had been contemplated might serve as 
encouragement for others to make a like attempt. 

Perhapo Lloyd and Dennys knew more re- 
garding the action of the military authorities 
than any others outside of the army, and for the 
reason that Paul Stubbs kept them well in- 
formed of what he learned from day to day. 

Jacob Chandler was tried by court-martial on 
the day following the escape of the boys ; and, 
thanks to the fact that Stubbs had seen the 
letter sent to him by Master Smart, neither of 
those who had acted as messengers were called 
upon for testimony. 

The faint-hearted but evil-inclined soldier 
was sentenced to a long term of imprisonment, 
and few among the citizens of New York had 
any clear idea of the crime with which he was 
charged. 


260 


A TORY PLOT. 


What may have been done toward punishing 
the more prominent and influential men who 
had taken part in the dastardly conspiracy will 
never be clearly known ; but certain it is they 
mended their ways for a certain time. 

Thomas Hickey was adjudged more culpable 
than many another, not only because of his be- 
ing a soldier in the Guard, but owing to the 
fact that he had been using every effort to 
seduce other members of the army; and, after a 
fair trial, during which both Lloyd and Dennys 
were forced to act as witnesses, he was sen- 
tenced to be hanged. 

An execution in the year 1776 was something 
which attracted, rather than repelled, the pub- 
lic ; and on this 27th day of June the streets of 
New York were filled with citizens of all 
classes, who were making their way with more 
or less eagerness, toward that country road 
known as the Bowery. 

Business w^as suspended, that apprentice as 


A TORY PLOT. 


261 


well as clerk might witness the spectacle of a 
man being launched into eternity as earthly 
expiation of his crimes ; and more than one ear- 
ned a basket of food, for the arrival of the con- 
demned might be delayed, and thus would a 
need arise for refreshments if the curious were 
not disposed to lose an advantageous position 
from which could be seen all the details in the 
horrible scene. 

In the rear of these hurrying, eager citizens, 
walking slowly as if to avoid arriving at the 
gallows-field in time to witness the punishment, 
were four persons with whom the reader has 
already been made acquainted — Paul Stubbs, 
Caleb Billings, Lloyd Dacre and Dennys How- 
land. 

It was as if every person who saw them had 
some remark of a friendly nature to make; and 
whenever they were accosted these four halted, 
much as though willing to embrace every op- 
portunity of losing time. 


262 


A TORY PLOT. 


I fail to understaDd why it is that reputable 
citizens can be so eager to see a human being 
sent into the next world at the end of a rope,” 
Dennys said to Paul Stubbs, as an acquaintance, 
with his wife and four children, hurried past 
with a cheery salutation, and a remark to the 
effect that he “ would like to linger for a bit of 
gossip, but that he feared all the best locations 
would be occupied, and he thus deprived of an 
opportunity to see his just deserts dealt out to 
a villain.” 

‘‘It is certain that neither of us would be 
walking toward the Bowery this day but for 
General Putnam’s positive command to such 
effect,” the soldier replied moodily. 

“But why should we be forced to look upon 
that which is horrible? Surely Hickey has 
caused us so much suffering that we might have 
been spared a view of him as he is being sent 
before his Maker.” 

“ I suppose the general believes we should be 


A TORY PLOT. 


263 


present because of the fact that he would have 
compassed our death had it been possible. A 
soldier ought never to shrink from a view of 
suffering in any form, and yet I am hoping we 
may arrive after it is over.” 

I can echo that wish, Master Stubbs,” Caleb 
Billings added emphatically. “ It will be 
much as if I w’as assistin’ at my own execution, 
for, had it not been for you three, I might 
have been standi n’ by Hickey’s side this day.” 

Now you are coming back to the same song 
w^hich we have foi'bidden you to sing,” Lloyd 
said, with a certain sharpness in his tone. “ You 
are not there, and your own good heart would 
have prevented your going too far in the plot. 
It is enough now that you have set your name 
down as a soldier, and w^e will hear no more 
about what might have been. Within two 
weeks we shall all be in uniform, sworn to 
fight for the colonies, and ready to unearth any 
plot against the commander-in-chief. 


264 


A TORY PLOT. 


Then the four walked on in silence during 
several moments, being alone on the road, for 
the eagerly curious ones had passed beyond 
view, and, perhaps, in order to occupy yet more 
time, Lloyd began speculating as to what for- 
tune might befall them when they were com- 
panions in arms, on the march, or in battle. 

Caleb Billings recovered a certain portion of 
his usual cheerfulness while discussing these 
possibilities ; and the little party lingered so 
long on the way that they were not yet where a 
view of the field could be had when the rolling 
of drums told that the last act in the plot was 
being played. 

^‘That marks the moment of Hickey’s death !” 
Paul Stubbs said, in a tone of solemnity, as he 
removed his hat, the others following the ex- 
ample. ^‘We have obeyed orders, so far as 
coming in this direction is concerned, and it may 
never be known but that we stood where all the 
details of his death might have been witnessed. 


A TORY PLOT. 


265 


We will wait here until the returning throng 
foi'ces us back, and from this day try to forget 
that such a member of the Guard ever had an 
existence.” 

Not until the sightseers came down the road 
did either of the little part}^ so much as speak, and 
then, during an hour or more, were they forced 
to receive and reply to congratulations upon 
the good work which had been done in thus 
bringing to justice one who would have worked 
the colonies the deadliest harm that could have 
come upon them. 

As to what reward was given Lloyd and 
Dennys for their part in frustrating the Tory 
plot it is impossible to write. We only know 
that in the year 1777 they, together with Caleb 
Billings, were in the army as privates, and 
shortly afterward the two lads were made lieu- 
tenants but more than that cannot be learned. 


THE END, 




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Prime Minister, The. By An- 
thony Trollope. 

Prince of the House of David. 
By Rev. J. H. Ingraham. 


Princ ess of the Moor. By E. 
Marlitt. 

Princess of Thule, A. By Will- 
iam Black. 

Professor, The. By Charlotte 
Bronte. 

Prue and I. By George William 
Curtis. 

Queen Hortense. By Louisa 

Muhlbach. 

Queenie’s Whim. By Rosa N. 
Carey. 

Quentin Durward. By Sir Wal- 
ter Scott. 

Redgauntlet. By Sir Walter 

Scott. 

Red Rover. By James Fenirnore 
Cooper. 

Reign of Law. By Duke of 

Argyle. 

Reveries of a Bachelor. By Ik 
Marvel. 

-Rhoda Fleming. By George 

Meredith. 

Rienzi. By Bulwer-Lytton. 

Robert Ord’s Atonement. By 
Rosa N. Carey. 

Robinson Crusoe. By Daniel 
Defoe. 

Rob Roy. By Sir Walter Scott. 

Romance of Two Worlds. By 
Marie Corelli. 

Romola. By George Eliot. 

Rory O’ More. By Samuel Lover. 

Saint Michael. By E. W'erner. 

Schonberg-Cotta Family. By 
Mrs. Andrew Charles. 

Sartor Resartus. By Thomafi 
Carlyle. 

Scarlet Letter, The. By Na- 
thaniel Hawthorne. 

Schopenhauer’s Essays. Trans- 
lated by T. B. Saunders. 

Scottish Chiefs. By J^ne Porter. 

Scott’s Poems. By Sir Walter 
Scott. 

Search for Basil Lyndhurst. By 
Rosa N. Carey. 

Second Wife, The. By E. Mar- 
litt. 

Seekers After God. By F. W. 
Farrar. 

Self-Help. By Samuel Smiles. 

Sense and Sensibility. By Jane 
Austen. 

Sesame and Lilies. By John 
Ruskin. 

Seven Lamps of Architecture. 
By John Ruskin. 

Shadow of a Crime. By Hall 
Caine. 

Shadow of the Sword. By Rob- 
ert Buchanan. 

Shirley. By Charlotte Bronte. 

Silas Marner. By George Eliot. 

Silence of Dean Maitland. By 
Maxwell Grey. 

Sin of Joost Avelingh. By 
Maarten Maartens. 

Sir Gibbie. By George Mac- 
donald. 


BURT’S HOME LIBRARY— Continued. Price $1.00 per Copy. 


Sketch Book, The. By Washing- 
ton Irving. 

Social Departure, A. By Sarah 
Jeannette Duncan. 

Soldiers, Three, etc. By' Rud- 
yard Kipling. 

Son of Hagar, A. By Hall 
Caine. 

Springhaven. By R. D. Biack- 
more. 

Spy, The. By James Fenimore 
Cooper. 

Story of an African Farm. By 
Olive Schreiner. 

Story of John G. Baton. Told 
for Young Folks. By Rev. 
James Baton. 

Strathmore. By “Oulda.” 

St. Ronan’s Well. By Sir Wal- 
ter Scott. 

Study in Scarlet, A. By A. 
Conan Doyle. 

Surgeon’s Daughter, The. By 
Sir Walter Scott. 

Swiss Family Robinson. By 
Jean Rudolph Wyss. 

Tale of Two Cities. By Charles 
Dickens. 

Tales from Shakespeare. By 
Charles and Mary Lamb. 

Talisman, The. By Sir Walter 
Scott. 

Tanglewood Tales. By Na- 
thaniel Hawthorne. 

Tempest and Sunshine. By Mary 

J. Holmes. 

Tempest Tossed. By Theodore 
Tilton. 

Ten Nights in a Barroom. By 
T. S. Arthur. 

Tennyson’s Boems. By Alfred 
Tennyson. 

Ten Tears Later. By Alexandre 
Dum.as. 

Terrible Temptation, A. By 
Charles Reade. 

Thaddeus of Warsaw. By Jane 
Borter. 

Thelma. By Marie Corelli. 

Thirty Years’ War. By Fred- 
erick Schiller. 

Thousand Miles Up the Nile. By 
Amelia B. Edwards. 

Three Guardsmen. By Alexandre 
Dumas. 

Three Men in a Boat. By Jerome 

K. Jerome. 

Thrift. By Samuel Smiles. 

Toilers of the Sea. By Victor 
Hugo. 

Tom Brown at Oxford. By 
Tnomas Hughes. 

Tom Brown’s School Days. By 
Tnomas Hughes. 

Tom Burke of “Ours.” By 
Charles Lever. 

Tom Cringle’s Log. By Michael 
Scott. 

Tour of the World in Eighty 
Days, A. By Jules Verne. 


Treasure Island. . By Robert 
Louis Stevenson. 

Twenty Thousand Leagues Under 
the. Sea. By Jules Verne. 

Twenty Years After. By Alex- 
andre Dumas. 

Twice Told Tales. By Na- 
thaniel Hawthorne. 

Two Admirals. By James Fenl- 
more Cooper. 

Two Years Before the Mast. BJ 
R. H. Dana, Jr. 

Uarda. By George Ebers. 

Uncle Max. By Rosa N. Carey. 

Uncle Tom’s Cabin. By Harriet 
Beecher Stowe. 

Undine and Other Tales. By De 
La Motte Fouque. 

Unity of Nature. By Duke of 
Argyle. 

Vanity Fair. By Wm. M. Thack- 
eray. 

Vendetta. By Marie Corelli. 

Vicar of Wakefield. By Oliver 
Goldsmith. 

Vicomte de Bragelonne. By 
Alexander Dumas. 

Vilette. By Charlotte Bronte. 

Virginians, The. By Wm. M. 
Thackeray. 

V/ater Babies, The. By Charles 
Kingsley. 

Water Witch, The. By James 
Fenimore Cooper. 

Waverley. By Sir Walter Scott. 

Wee Wifie. By Rosa N. Carey. 

Westward Ho! By Charles 
Kingsley. 

We Two. By Edna Lyall. 

What’s Mine’s Mine. By George 
MacDonald. 

When a Man’s Single. By J. M. 

White Company, The, By A. 
Conan Doyle. 

Whittier’s Poems. (Early). 

Wide, Wide World. By Susan 
Warner. 

Widow Derouge, The. By Emile 
Gaboriau. 

Window in Thrums. By J, M. 
Barrie. 

Wing and Wing. By James Fen- 
imore Cooper. 

Woman in White, The. By Wil- 
kie Collins. 

Won by Waiting. By Edna 
Lyall. 

Wonder Book, A, For Boys and 
Girls. By Nathaniel Haw- 
thorne. 

Woodstock. By Sir Walter Scott. 

Wooed and Married. By Rosa 
N. Carey. 

Wooing O’t. By Mrs. Alexander. 

World Went Very Well Then, 
The. By Walter Besant. 

Wormwood. By Marie Corelli. 

W/eck of the Grosvenor, The. 

By W. Clark Russell. 

Zenobia. By William Ware. 


The F airy Library 

A series of books composed wholly of Fairy 
Stories, compiled and edited by various authors, 

-comprising the fairy stories and folk tales of 
various people. Each volume profusely illus- 
Itrated and handsomely bound in cloth orna- 
mented in gold and colors. 


PRICE ,31.00 PER VOLUME. 


Tlie B,€d Fairy Book, edited by 
Andrew Lang, with numerous illustra- 
tions by H. J. Ford and Lancelot Speed, 
cloth, price $1.00. 

' The Blue Fairy Book, edited by Andrew Lang, with 
numerous illustrations by H. J. Ford and G. P. Hood, cloth, pricei 
$ 1 . 00 . 

The Green Fairy Book, edited by Andrew Lang, with 
numerous illustrations by H. J. Ford, cloth, price $1.00. 

The Yellow Fairy Book, edited by Andrew Lang, with 
numerous illustrations by H. J. Ford, cloth, price $1.00. 

Celtic Fairy Tales, edited by Joseph Jacobs, profusely 
illustrated by John D. Batten, cloth, price $1.00. 

English Fairy Tales, edited by Joseph Jacobs, profusely 
illustrated by John D. Batten, cloth, price $1.00. 

Indian Fairy Tales, edited by Joseph Jacobs, profusely 
illustrated by John D. Batten, cloth, price $1.00. 

Andersen’s Fairy Tales, by Hans Christian Ander« 
SEN, with many illustrations by Cooper Edwards and others, cloth, 
price $1.00. 

' Grimm’s Household Fairy Tales, by the Brotht^rs 
Grimm, with many illustrations by Walter Crane and others, 
cloth, price $1.00. 

1 Grimm’ ^ Popular Fairy Tales, by the Brothers 
Grimm, with many illustrations by Walter Crane and others 
cloth, price $1.00. 



For sale by all booksellers, or sent postpaid on receipt of price 
by the nublisher, A, £, BURT, 97 Reade Street, New York, 


A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS 

For Young People 

BY POPULAR WRITERS, 

97-99-101 Reade Street, New York. 


_ Bonnie Prince Charlie : A Tale of Fontenoy and Culloden. By 
G. A. Henty. With 12 full- page Illustrations by Gordon 
Browne. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

The adventures of the son of a Scotch officer in French service. 
The boy, brought up by a Glasgow bailie, is arrested for aiding a 
Jacobite agent, escapes, is wrecked on the French coast, reaches 
Paris, and serves with the French army at Dettingen. He kills 
his father’s foe in a duel, and escaping to. the coast, shares the 
adventures of Prince Charlie, but finally settles happily in Scot- 
land. 

“Ronald, the hero, is very like the hero of ‘ Quentin Durward.’ The lad’s 
journey across France, and his hairbreadth escapes, make up as good a nar- 
rative of the kind as we have ever read. For freshness of treatment and 
variety of incident Mr. Henty has surpassed himself.”— fifpectatoj-. 

With Clive in India ; or, the Beginnings of an Empire. By 
G. A. Henty. With 12 full-page Illustrations by Gordon 
Browne. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

The period between the landing of Clive as a young writer in 
India and the close of his career was critical and eventful in the 
extreme. At its commencement the English were traders existing 
on sufferance of the native princes. At its close they were masters 
of Bengal and ..f the greater part of Southern India. The author 
has given a full and accurate account of the events of that stirring 
time, and battles and sieges follow each other in rapid succession, 
while he combines with his narrative a tale of daring and adven- 
ture, which gives a lifelike interest to the volume. 

“ He has taken a period of Indian history of the most vital importance, 
and he has embroidered on the historical facts a story which of itself is deeply 
interesting. Young people assuredly will be delighted with the volume.”— 
Scotsman. 

The Lion of the North : A Tale of Gustavus Adolphus and the 
Wars of Religion. By G. A. Henty. With full-page Illus- 
trations by John Schonberg. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

In this story Mr. Hen^y gives the history of the first part of the 
Thirty Years’ War. The issue had its importance, which has ex- 
tended to the present day, as' it established religious freedom 
in Germany. The array of the chivalrous king of Sweden was 
largely composed of Scotchmen, and among these was the hero of 
the story. 

“ The tale is a clever and instructive piece of history, and as boys may be 
trusted to read it conscientiously, they can hardly fail to be profited.”— TDites. 


2 


A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 


The Dragon and the Raven ; or, The Days of King Alfred. By 

G. A. Henty. With full-page Illustrations by C. J. Stani- 

LAND, R.I. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

In this story the author gives an account of the fierce struggle 
between Saxon and Dane for su>i’emacy in England, and presents 
a vivid picture of the misery and ruin to which the country was 
reduced by the ravages of the sea- wolves. The hero, a young 
Saxon thane, takes part in all the battles fought by King Alfred. 
He is driven from his home, takes to the sea and resists the Danes 
on thf^ir own element, and being pursued by them up the Seine, 
is present at the long and desperate siege of Paris. 

“ Treated in a manner most attractive to the boyish reader.'’— At/iencewm. 

The Young Carthaginian: A Story of the Times of Hannibal, 

By G. A. Henty. With full-page Illustrations by C. J. Stani- 

LAND, R.I. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

Boys reading the history of the Punic Wars have seldom a keen 
appreciation of the merits of the contest. That it was at first a 
struggle for empire, and afterward for existence on the part of 
Carthage, that Hannibal was a great and skillful general, that he 
defeated the Romans at Trebia, Lake Trasimenus, and Cannae, 
and all but took Rome, represents pretty nearly the sum total of 
their knowledge. To let them know more about this momentous 
struggle for the empire of the world Mr. Henty has written this 
story, which not only gives in graphic style a brilliant descrip- 
tion of a most interesting period of history, but is a tale of ex- 
citing adventure sure to secure the interest of the reader. 

“ Well constructed and vividly told. From first to last nothing stays the 
interest of the narrative. It bears us along as on a |stream whose current 
varies in direction, but never loses its force .” — Saturday Review. 

In Freedom’s Cause : A Story of Wallace and Bruce. ByG. A. 

Henty. With full-page Illustrations by Gordon Browne. 

12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

In this story the author relates the stirring tale of the Scottish 
War of Independence. The extraordinary valor and personal 
prowess of Wallace and Bruce rival the deeds of the mythical 
heroes of chivalry, and indeed at one time Wallace was ranked 
with these legendary personages. The researches of modern 
historians have shown, however, that he was a living, breathing 
man — and'a valiant champion. The hero of the tale fought under 
both Wallace and Bruce, and while the strictest historical accuracy 
has been maintained with respect to public events, the work is 
full of “hairbreadth ’scapes” and wild adventure, 

” It is written in the author’s best style. Full of the wildest an'’ most re- 
markable achievements, it is a tale of great interest, which a boy, once 
begun it, will not willingly put on one side.”— ITie Schoolmaster. 


A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 


3 


With Lee in Virginia: A Story of the American Civil War. By 

G. A. Henty. With full-page Illustrations by Gordon 

Browne. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

The story of a young Virginian planter, who, after bravely 
proving his sympathy with the slaves of brutal masters, serves 
with no less courage and enthusiasm under Lee and Jackson 
through the most exciting events of the struggle. He has many 
hairbreadth escapes, is several times wounded and twice taken 
prisoner; but his courage and readiness and, in two cases, the 
devotion of a black servant and of a runaway slave whom he had 
assisted, bring him safely through all difficulties. 

“ One of the best stories for lads which Mr. Henty has yet written. The 
micture is full of life and color, and the stirring and romantic incidents are 
Skillfully blended with the personal interest and charm of the story.”— 
Standard. 

By England’s Aid ; or. The Freeing of the Netherlands (1585- 

1604). By G. A. Henty. With full-page Illustrations by 

Alfred Pearse, *and Maps. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

The story of two English lads v\ ho go to Holland as pages in 
the service of one of “the lighting Veres.” After many adven- 
tures by sea and land, one of the lads finds himself on board a 
Spanish ship at the time of the defeat of the Armada, and escapes 
only to fall into the hands of the Corsairs. He is successful in 
getting back to Spain under the protection of a wealthy merchant, 
and regains his native country after the capture of Cadiz. 

“ It is an admirable book for youngsters. It overflows with stirring inci- 
dent and exciting adventure, and the color of the era and of the scene are 
finely reproduced. The illustrations add to its attractiveness.”— iJosf on. 
Gazette. 

By Right of Conquest ; or, With Cortez in Mexico. By G. A. 

Henty. With full-page Illustrations by W. S. Stacey, and 

Two Maps. 12mo, cloth, price $1.50. 

The conquest of Mexico by a small band of resolute men under 
the magnificent leadership of Cortez is always rightly ranked 
among the most romantic and daring exploits in history. With 
this as the groundwork of his story Mr. Henty has interwoven the 
adventures of an English youth, Roger Hawkshaw, the sole sur- 
vivor of the good ship Swan, which had sailed from a Devon port 
to challenge the mercantile supremacy o the Spaniards in the 
New World. He is beset by many perils among the natives, but 
is saved bv his own judgment and strength, and by the devotion 
of an Aztec princess. At last by a ruse he obtains the protection 
of the Spaniards, and after the fall of Mexico h^^ succeeds in re- 
gaining his native shore, with a fortune and a charming Aztec 
bride. 

“ ‘ By Right of Conquest’ is the nearest approach to a perfectly successful 
historical tale that Mr. Henty has yet published.”— Academy. 


4 


A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 


In the Reign of Terror : The Adventures of a Westminster Boy. 
By G. A. Henty. With fuil-page Illustrations by J. Schon 
BERG. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

Harry Sandwith, a Westminster boy, becomes a resident at the 
chateau of a French marquis, and after various adventures accom- 
panies the family to Paris at the crisis of the Revolution. Im- 
prisonment and death reduce their number, and the hero finds 
himself beset by perils with the throe young daughters of the 
bouse in his charge. After hairbreadth escapes they reach Nan- 
tes. There the girls are condemned to death in the coffin-shipS; 
but are saved by the unfailing courage of their boy protector. 

“ Harry Sandwith, the Westminster boy, may fairly be said to beat Mr. 1 
Henty’s record. His adventures will delight boys by the audacity and peril 
they depict. . . . The story is one of Mr. Henty’s best.”— ^’afwrdai/ 
Review. 

With Wolfe in Canada ; or, The Winning of a Continent. By 
G. A. Henty. With full-page Illustrations by Gordon 
Browne. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

In the present volume Mr. Henty gives an account of the strug- 
gle between Britain and France for supremacy in the North 
American continent. On the issue of this war depended not only 
the destinies of North America, but to a large extent those of the 
mother countries themselves. The fall of Quebec decided that 
the Anglo-Saxon race should predominate in the New World; 
that Britain, and not France, should take the lead among the 
nations of Europe; and that English and American commerce, the 
English language, and English literature, should spread right 
round the globe. 

“ It is not only a lesson in history as instructively as it is graphically told, 
but also a deeply interesting and often thrilling tale of adventure and peril by 
dood and Illustrated London News. 

True to the Old Flag: A Tale of the American War of Inde- 
pendence. By G. A. Henty. With full-page Illustrations by 
Gordon Browne. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

In this story the author has gone to the accounts of officers who 
took part in the conflict, and lads will find that in no war in which 
American and British soldiers have been engaged did they behave 
with greater courage and good conduct. The historical portion of, 
the book being accompanied with numerous thrilling adventures 
with the redskins on the shores of Lake Huron, a story of exciting 
interest is interwoven with the* general narrative and carried 
through the book. 

” Does justice to the pluck and determination of the British soldiers during 
the unfortunate struggle against American emancipation. The son of an 
American loyalist, who remains true to our flag, falls among the hostile red- 
skins in that very Huron country which has been endeared to us by the ex- 
ploits of Hawkeye and Chingachgook.”— 27ie Times, 


A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 


5 


The Lion of St. Mark : A Tale of Venice in the Fourteenth 

Century. By G. A. Henty. With full-page Illustrations by 
Gordon Browne. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

A story of Venice at a period when her strength and splendor 
were put to the severest tests. The hero displays a fine sense and 
manliness which carry him safely through an atmosphere of in- 
trigue, crime, and bloodshed. He contributes largely to the vic- 
tories of the Venetians at Porto d’Anzo and Chioggia, and finally 
wins the band of the daughter of one of the chief men of Venice. 

“ Every boy should read ‘ The Lion of St. Mark.’ Mr. Henry has never pro- 
duced a story more delightful, more wholesome, or more vivacious.” — Satur- 
day Revieio. 

A Final Reckoning: A Tale of Bush Life in Australia. ByG. A 

Henty. With full-page Illustrations by W. B. Wollen. 

12mo, cloth, price $1.00, 

The hero, a young English lad. after rather a stormy boyhood, 
emigrates to Australia, and gets employment as an officer in the 
mounted police. A few years of active work on the frontier, 
where he has many a brush with both natives and bushrangers, 
gain him promotion to a captaincy, and he eventually settles 
down to the peaceful life of a squatter. 

“ Mr. Henty has never published a more readable, a more carefully con. 
stmcted, or a better written story than this."— Spectator. 

Under Drake’s Flag : A Tale of the Spanish Main. By G. A. 

Henty. With full-page Illustrations by Gordon Browne. 

12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

A story of the days when England and Spain struggled for the 
supremacy of the sea. The heroes sail as lads with Drake in the 
Pacific expedition, and in his great voyage of circumnavigation. 
The historical portion of the story is absolutely to be relied upon, 
but this will perhaps be less attractive than the great variety of 
exciting adventure through which the young heroes pass in the 
course of their voyages. 

“ A book of adventure, where the hero meets with experience enough, one 
would think, to turn his hair gray."— Harper's Monthly Magazine. 

By Sheer Pluck : A Tale of the Ashanti War. By G. A. Henti 

With full- page Illustrations by Gordon Browne. 12mo, 

cloth, price $1.00. 

The author has woven, in a tale of thrilling interest, all the de- 
tails of the Ashanti campaign, of which he was himself a witness. 
His hero, after many exciting adventures in the interior, is de- 
tained a prisoner by the king just before the outbreak of the war, 
but escapes, and accompanies the English expedition on their 
march to Coomassie. 

” Mr. Henty keeps up his reputation as a writer of boys’ stories. ‘ By Sheer 
iPluck ’ will be eagerly read.”— AfAenceum. 


6 


A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 


By Pike and Dyke : A 1’ale of the Rise of the Dutch Republic. 
By G. A. Henty. With full-page Illustrations by Maynard 
Brown, and 4 Maps. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

In this story Mr. Henty traces the adventures and brave deeds 
of an English boy in the household of the ablest man of his age — 
William the Silent. Edward Martin, the son of an English sea- 
captain, enters the service of the Prince as a volunteer, and is em- 
ployed by him in many dangerous and responsible missions, in the 
discharge of which he passes through the great sieges of the time. 
He ultimately settles down as Sir Edward Martin. 

“ Boys with a turn for historical research will be enchanted with the book, 
while the rest who only care for adventure.will be students in spite of them- 
selves.”— Nf. James' Gazette. 

St. George for England : A Tale of Cressy and Poitiers. By 
G. A. Henty. With full-page Illustrations by Gordon 
Browne. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

No portion of’English history is more crowded with great events 
than that of the reign of Edward III. Cressy and Poitiers; the 
destruction of the Spanish fleet; the plague of the Black Death; 
the Jacquerie rising; these are treated by the author in “St. 
George for England.” The hero of the story, although of good 
family, begins life as a London apprentice, but after countless adj 
ventures and perils becomes by valor and good conduct the squire, 
and at last the trusted friend of the Black Prince. 

“ Mr. Henty has de veloped for himself a type of historical novel for boys 
which bids fair to supplement, on their behalf, the historical labors of Sir 
Walter Scott in the land of fiction.”— r/te Standard. 

Captain’s Kidd’s Gold : The True Story of an Adventurous Sailor 
Boy. By James Franklin Fitts. 12rao, clot'i, price $1.00. 
There is something fascinating to the average youth in the very 
idea of buried treasure. A vision arises before his eyes of swarthy 
Portuguese and Spanish rascals, with black beards and gleaming 
(eyes — sinister-looking fellows who once on a time haunted the 
' Spanish Main, sneaking out from some hidden creek in their long, 
low schooner, of picaroonisb rake and sheer, to attack an unsus- 
pecting trading craft. There were many famous sea rovers in 
their day, but none more celebrated than Caj)!. Kidd. Perhaps 
the most fascinating tale of all is Mr. Fitts’ true story of an adven- 
turous American boy, who receives from his <lying father an 
ancient bit of vellum, which the latter obtained in a curious way. 
The document bears obscure directions purporting to locate a cer- 
tain island in the Bahama group, and a considerable treasure 
buried there by two of Kidd’s crew. The hero of this book, 
Paul Jones Garry, is an ambitious, persevering lad, of salt-water 
New England ancestry, and his efforts to reach the island and 
secure the money form one of the most absorbing ta! 3S for our 
youth that has come from the press. 


A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 




Captain Bayley’s Heir : A Tale of the Gold Fields of California. 

G. A. Henty., With full-page Illustrations by H. M. 

Paget. 12tno, cloth, price $1.00. 

A frank, manly lad and his cousin are rivals in the heirship of a 
CO isiderable property. The former falls into a trap laid by the 
latter, and while under a false accusation of theft foolishly leaves 
England for America. He works his passage before the mast, 
joins a small band of hunters, crosses a tract of country Infested 
with Indians to the Californian gold diggings, and is successful 
both as digger and trader. 

“Mr. Henty is careful to mingle instruction v/ith entertainment; and the 
humorous touches, especially in the sketch of John Holl, the Westminster 
dustman, Dickens himself could hardly have excelled .” — Christian Leader. 

For Name and Fame ; or. Through Afghan Passes. By G. A. 

Henty. With full-page Illustrations by Gordon Browne. 

x2mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

An interesting story of the last war in Afghanistan. The hero, 
tfter being wrecked and going through many stirring adventures 
among the Malays, finds his way to Calcutta and enlists in a regi- 
me: t proceeding to join the army at the Afghan passes. He ac- 
companies the force under General Roberts to the Peiwar Kotal, 
is wounded, taken prisoner, carried to CaUul, whence he is trans- 
ferred to Candahar, and takes part in the final defeat of the army 
of Ayoub Khan. 

“The best feature of the book— apart from the interest of its scenes of ad 
venture— is its honest effort to do justice to the patriotism of the Afghan 
people.”— Dai7^ News. 

Captured by Apes : The Wonderful Adventures of a Young 

Animal Trainer. By Harry Prentice. 12mo, cloth, $1.00. 

The scene of this tale is laid on an island in the Malay Archi- 
pelago. Philip Garland, a young animal collector and trainer, of 
New York, sets sail for Eastern seas in quest of a new stock of 
living curiosities. The vessel is wrecked off the coast of Borneo 
and young Garland, the sole survivor of the disaster, is cast ashore 
on a small island, and captured by the apes that overrun the 
place. The lad discovers that the ruling spirit of the monkey 
Iribe is a gigantic and vicious baboon, whom he identifies as 
Goliah, an animal at one time in his possession and with whose 
instruction he bad been especially diligent. The brute recognize! 
him, and with a kind of malignant satisfaction puts his former 
master through the same course of training he had himself ex- 
perienced with a faithfulness of detail which shows howastonieh- 
ing is monkey recollection. Very novel indeed is the way by 
which the young man escapes death. Mr. Prentice has certainly 
worked a new vein on juvenile fiction, and the ability with w'hich 
he handles a difficult subject stamps him as a writer of undoubted 
skill. 


A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 


S 


The Bravest of the Brave ; or, With Peterborough in opain. 

By G. A. Henty. With full-page Illustrations by H. M. 

Paget. 12aio, cloth, price $1.00, 

There are few great leaders whose lives and actions have so 
completely fallen into oblivion as those of the Earl of Peter- 
borough. This is largely due to the fact that they were over- 
shadowed by the glory and successes of Marlborough. His career 
as general extended over little more than a year, and yet, in that 
time, he showed a genius for warfare which has never been sur- 
passed. 

“ Mr. Henty never loses sight of the moral purpose of his work— to enforce 
the doctrine of courage and truth. Lads will read ‘ The Bravest of the Brave ' 
With pleasure and profit; of that we are quite sure.'’’— Daily Telegraph. 

The Cat of Bubastes : A Story of Ancient Egypt. By G. A. 

Henty. With full-page Illustrations. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

A story which will give young readers an unsurpassed insight 
into the customs of the Egyptian people. Amuba, a prince of the 
Rebu nation, is carried with his charioteer Jethro into slavery. 
They become inmates of the house of Ameres, the Egyptian high- 
priest, and are happy in his service until the priest’s son acci- 
dentally kills the sacred cat of Bubastes. In an outburst of popular 
fury Ameres is killed, and it rests with Jethro and Amuba to 
secure the escape of the high-priest’s son and daughter. 

“ Th<i story, from the critical moment of the killing of the sacred cat to the 
perilous exodus into Asia with which it closes, is very skillfully constructed 
and full of exciting adventures. It is admirably illustrated.”— 

Review. 

With Washington at Monmouth : A Story of Three Phila- 
delphia Boys. By James Otis. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

Three Philadelphia boys, Seth Graydon “whose mother con- 
ducted a boarding-house which was patronized by the British 
officers;” Enoch Ball, “son of that Mrs. Ball whose dancing 
school was situated on Letitia Street,” and little Jacob, son of 
“ Chris, the Baker,” serve as the principal characters. The 
story is laid during the winter when Lord Howe held possession 
of the city, and the lads aid the cause by assisting the American 
spies who make regular and frequent visits from Valley Forge. 
One reads here of home-life in the captive city when bread was 
scarce among the people of the lower classes, and a reckless prodi- 
gality shown by the British officers, who passed the winter in 
feasting and merry-making while the members of the patriot army 
but a few miles away were suffering from both cold and hunger. 
The story abounds with pictures of Colonial life skillfully 
drawn, and the glimpses of Washington’s soldiers which are given 
show that the work has not been hastily done, or without con- 
siderable study. 


A. L. BURT’S PUBLIC ATIONSr 


9 


Kor the T emple : A Tale of the Fall of Jerusalem. By G. A, 
Henty. With full-page Illustrations by S. J. Solomon. 12mo, 
cloth, price $1.00. 

Mr. Henty here weaves into the record of Josephus an admirable 
and attractive story. The troubles in the district of Tiberias, the 
march of the legions, the sieges of Jotapata, of Gamala, and oi 
Jerusalem, form the impressive and carefully studied historia 
setting to the figure of the lad who passes from the vineyard to 
the service of Josephus, becomes the leader of a guerrilla band of 
patriots, fights bravely for the Temple, and after a brief term of 
slavery at Alexandria, returns to his Galilean home with the favor 
of Titus. • 

“ Mr. Henty ’s graphic prt)se pictures of the hopeless Jewish resistance to 
ncman sway another leaf to his record of the famous wars of the world ” 

- ^Graphic. 

Facing Death ; or. The Hero of the Vaughan Pit. A Tale of 
the Coal Mines. By G. A. Henty. With full-page Illustra- 
tions by Gordon Browne. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

“Facing Death” is a story with a purpose. It is intended to 
show that a lad who makes up his mind firmly and resolutely that 
he will rise in life, and who is prepared to face toil and ridicule 
and hardship to carry out his determination, is sure to succeed. 
The hero of the story is a typical British boy, dogged, earnest, 
generous, and though “ shamefaced” to a degree, is ready to face 
death in the discharge of duty. 

“The tale is well written and well illustrated, and there is much reality in 
the characters. If any father, clergyman, or schoolmaster is on the lookout 
for a good book to give as a present to a boy who is worth his salt, this is the 
book we would recommend.”— Stondard. 

Tom Temple’s Career. By Horatio Alger. 12mo, cloth, 
price $1.00. 

Tom Temple, a bright, self-reliant lad, by the death of his 
father becomes a boarder at the home of Nathan Middleton, a 
penurious insurance agent. Though well paid for keeping thf 
boy, Nathan and his wife endeavor to bring Master Tom in line 
with their parsimonious habits. The lad ingeniously evades their 
efforts and revolutionizes the household. As Tom is heir to 
$40,000, he is regarded as a person of some importance until by 
an unfortunate combination of circumstances his fortune shrinks 
to a few hundreds. He leaves Plympton village to seek work ip 
New York, whence he undertakes an important mission to Cali, 
fornia, around which center the most exciting incidents of his 
young career. Some of his adventures in the far west are so 
startling that the reader will scarcely close the book until the last 
page shall have been reached. The tale is written in Mr. Alger’s 
most fascinating style, and is bound to please the very large class 
of boys who regard this popular author as a prime favorite. 


10 


A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 


Maori and Settler: A Story of the New Zealand War. By 

G. A. Henty. With full-page Illustrations by Alfred Pearse. 

12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

The Renshaws emigrate to New Zealand during the period of 
the war with the natives. Wilfrid, a strong, self-reliant, coura- 
geous lad, is the mainstay of the household. He has for his friend 
Mr. Atherton, a botanist and naturalist of herculean strength and 
unfailing nerve and humor. In the adventures among the Maoris, 
there are many breathless moments in which the odds seem hope- 
lessly against the party, but they succeed in establishing them- 
selves happily in one of the pleasant New Zealand valleys. 

“Brimful of adventure, of humorous and interesting conversation, and 
vivid pictures of colonial life.'"— Schoolmaster. 

Julian MortimerJ: A Brave Boy’s Struggle for Home and Fortune. 

By Harry Castlemon. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

Here is a story that will warm every boy’s heart. There is 
mystery enough to keep any lad’s imagination wound up to the 
highest pitch. The scene of the story lies west of the Mississippi 
River, in the days when emigrants made their perilous way across 
the great plains to the land of gold One of the startling features 
of the book is the attack upon the wagon train by a large party of 
Indians. Our hero is a lad of uncommon nerve and pluck, a brave 
young American in every sense of the word. He enlists and holds 
the reader’s sympathy from the outset. Surrounded by an un- 
known and constant peril, and assisted by the unswerving fidelity 
of a stalwart trapper, a real rough diamond, our hero achieves the 
most happy results. Harry Castlemon has written many enter- 
taining stories for boys, and it would seem almost superfluous to 
say anything in his praise, for the youth of America regard him 
as a favorite author. 

“Carrots:” Just a Little Boy. By Mrs. Molesworth. With 

Illustrations by Walter Crane. 12mo, cloth, price 75 cents* 

“ One of the cleverest and most pleasing stories it has been our good for- 
tune to meet with for some time. Carrots and his sister are delightful little 
beings, whom to read about is at once to become very fond of Examiner. 

“A genuine children’s book; we’ve seen ’em seize it, and read it greedily’ 
Children are first-rate critics, and thoroughly appreciate Walter Crane’s 
illustrations. ’ '‘—Punch. 


With Eight page 


Mopsa the Fairy. By Jean Ingelow. 

Illustrations. 12mo, cloth, price 75 cents. 

“ Mrs. Ingelow is, to our mind, the most charming of all living writers for 
children, and ‘ Mopsa ’ alone ought to give her a kind of pre-emptive right to 
the love and gratitude of our young folks. It requires genius to conceive a 
purely imaginary work which must of necessity deal with the supernatural 
without running into a mere riot of fantastic absurdity; but genius Miss In- 
gelow has and the story of ‘ Jack ’ is as careless and joyous, but as delicate, 
as a picture of childhood.”— 


A, h. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 


11 


A Jaunt Through Java: The Story of a Journey to the Sacred 
Mountain. By Edward S. Ellis. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00„ 
The central interest of this story is found in the thrilling ad- 
ventures of two cousins, Hermon and Eustace Hadley, on their 
trip across the island of Java, from Saraarangtothe Sacred Moun 
tain. In a land where the Royal Bengal tiger runs at large; 
where the rhinoceros and other fierce beasts are to be met with 
at unexpected moments; it is but natural that the heroes of this 
book should have a lively experience. Hermon not only dis- 
tinguishes himself by killing a full-grown tiger at short range, 
but meets with the most startling adventure of the journeyc 
There is much in this narrative to instruct as well a"- entertain the 
reader, and so deftly has Mr. Ellis used his material that there is 
not a dull page in the book. The two heroes are brave, manly 
young fellows, bubbling over with boyish independence. They 
cope with the many diflBculties that arise during the trip in a fear- 
less way that is bound to win the admiration of every lad who is 
80 fortunate as to read their adventures. 


Wrecked on Spider Island; or. How Ned Rogers Found the 

Treasure. By James Otis. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

A “ down-east” plucky lad who ships as cabin boy, not from 
love of adventure, but because it is the only course remaining by 
which he can gain a livelihood. While in his bunk, seasick, 
Ned Rogers hears the captain and mate discussing their plans for 
the willful wreck of the brig in order to gain the insurance. Once 
it is known he is in possession of the secret the captain maroons 
him on Spider Island, explaining to the crew' that the boy is 
afflicted with leprosy. While thus involuntarily playing the part 
of a Crusoe, Ned discovers a wreck submerged in the sand, and 
overhauling the timbers for the purpose of gathering material 
with which to build a hut finds a considerable amount of treasure. 
Raising the wreck; a voyage to Havana under sail; shipping there 
a crew and running for Savannah; the attempt of the crew to 
seize the little craft after learning of the treasure on board, and, 
as a matter of course, the successful ending of the journey, all 
serve to make as entertaining a story of sea-life as the most 
captious boy could desire. 


Geoff and Jim : A Story of School Life. By Ismay Thorn. Il- 
lustrated by A. G. Walker. 12mo, cloth, price 75 cents. 

“ This is a prettily told story of the life spent by two motherless bairns at 
a small preparatory school. Both Geoff and Jim are very lovable characters, 
only Jim is the more so; and the scrapes he gets into and the trials he en- 
dures will, no doubt, interest a large circle of young readers. — Church 

“This is a capital children’s story, the characters well portrayed, and the 
book tastefully bound and well illustrated.”— S'c/ioo^ma.sfer. 

“The story can be heartily recommended as a present for boys. — 
Standard. 


12 


A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 


The Castaways ; or, On the Florida Reefs. By James Otis. 
12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

This tale smacks of the salt sea. It is just the kind of story 
that the majority of boys yearn for. From the moment that the 
Sea Queen dispenses with the services of the tug in lower New 
York bay till the breeze leaves her bev^almed off the coast of 
Florida, one can almost hear the whistle of the wind through her 
Tigging, the creak of her straining cordage as she heels to the 
leeward, and feel her rise to the snow-capped waves which her 
sharp bow cuts into twin streaks of foam. Off Marquesas Keys 
she floats in a dead calm. Ben Clark, the hero of the story, and 
Jake, the cook, spy a turtle asleep upon the glassy surface of the 
water. They determine to capture him, and take a boat for that 
purpose, and just as they succeed in catching him a thick fog 
cuts them off from the vessel, and then their troubles be_in. 
They take refuge on board a drifting hulk, a storm arises and they 
are cast ashore upon a low sandy key. Their adventures from 
this point cannot fail to charm the reader. As a writer for young 
people Mr. Otis is a prime favorite. His style is captivating, and 
never for a moment does he allow the interest to flag. In “ The 
Castaways ” he is at his best. 

Tom Thatcher’s Fortune. By Horatio Alger, Jr. 12mo, 
cloth, price $1.00. 

Like all of Mr. Alger’s heroes, Tom Thatcher is a brave, am- 
bitious, unselfish boy. He supports his mother and sister on 
meager wages earned as a shoe-pegger in John Simpson’s factory. 
The story begins with Tom’s discharge from the factory, because 
Mr. Simpson felt annoyed with the lad for interrogating him too 
closely about his missing father. A few days afterward Tom 
learns that which induces him to start overlandfor California with 
the view of probing the family mystery. He meets with many ad- 
ventures. Ultimately he returns to his native village, bringing con- 
sternation to the soul of John Simpson, who only escapes the con- 
sequences of his villainy by making full restitution to the man 
whose friendship he had betrayed. The story is told in that en- 
tertaining way which has made Mr. Alger’s name a household 
word in so many homes. 

Birdie : A Tale of Child IJfe. By H. L. Childe-Pemberton, 

Illustrated by H. W. Rainey. 12mo, cloth, price 75 cents. 

“ The story is quaint and simple, but there is a freshness about it that 
makes one hear again the ringing laugh and the cheery shout of children at 
play which charmed his earlier years .” — New York Express. 

Popular Fairy Tales, By the Brothers Grimm, Profusely 
Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

From first to last, almost without exception, these stories are delightful.” 
‘^thcnoeum. 


A. L. BURT^S PUBLICATIONS. 


la 


With Lafayette at Yorktown : A Story of How Two Boys 
Joined the Continental Army. By James Otis. 12mo, cloth, 
price $1.00. 

The two boys are from Portsmouth, N. H., and are introduced 
in August, 1781, when on the point of leaving home to enlist in 
Col. Scammell’s regiment, then stationed near New York City. 
Their method of traveling is on horseback, and the author has 
given an interesting account of what was expected from boys in 
the Colonial days. The lads, after no slight amount of adventure, 
are sent as messengers — not soldiers — into the south to find the 
troops under Lafayette. Once with that youthful general they 
are given employment as spies, and enter the British camp, 
bringing away valuable information. The pictures of camp-life 
are carefully drawn, and the portrayal of Lafayette’s character is 
thoroughly well done. The story is wholesome in tone, as are all 
of Mr. Otis’ works. There is no lack of exciting incident which 
the youthful reader craves, but it is healthful excitement brim- 
ming with facts which every boy should be familiar with, and 
while the reader is following the adventures of Ben Jafltreys and 
Ned Allen he is acquiring a fund of historical lore which will 
remain in his memory long after that which he has memorized 
from text-books has been forgotten. 

Lost in the Canon : Sam Willett’s Adventures on the GreP't 
Colorado. By Alfred R. Calhoun. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 
This story hinges on a fortune left to Sam Willett, the hero,- 
and the fact that it will pass to a disreputable relative if the lad 
dies before he shall have reached his majority. The Vigilance 
Committee of Hurley’s Gulch arrest Sam’s father and an associate 
for the crime of murder. Their lives depend he production 
of the receipt given for money paid. This m Sam’s possession 
at the camp on the other side of the canon. A messenger is dis- 
patched to get it. He reaches the lad in the midst of a fearful 
storm which floods the canon. His father’s peril urges Sam to 
action. A raft is built on which the boy and his friends essay to 
cross the torrent. They fail to do so, and a desperate trip down 
the stream ensues. How the party finally escape from the hor- 
rors of their situation and Sam reaches Hurley’s Gulch in the very 
nick of time, is described in a graphic style that stamps Mr. Cal- 
houn as a master of his art. 

Jack : A Topsy Turvy Story. By C. M. Crawley-Boevey 
With upward of Thirty Illustrations by H. J. A. MileSo 
12mo, cloth, price 75 cents. 

“The illustrations deserve particular mention, as they add largely to the 
interest of this amusing volume for children. Jack falls asleep with his mind 
full of the subject of the fishpond, and is very much surprised presently to 
find himself an inhabitant of Waterworld, where he goes though wonderful 
and edifying adventures. A handsome and pleasant book .” — Literary Worldn. 


14 


A, L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 


Search for the Silver City : A Tale of Adventure in Yucatan. 

By James Otis. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

Two American lads, Teddy Wright and Neal Emery, embark 
on the steam yacht Day Dream for a short summer cruise to the 
tropics. Homeward bound the yacht is destroyed by fire. AV 
hands take to the boats, but during the night the boat is cast upou 
the coast of Yucatan. They come across a young American 
named Cummings, who entertains them with the story of the 
wonderful Silver City, of the Chan Santa Cruz Indians. Cum- 
mings proposes with the aid of a faithful Indian ally to brave 
the perils of the swamp and carry off a number of the golden 
images from the temples. Pursued with relentless vigor for days 
their situation is desperate. At last their escape is effected in an 
astonishing manner. Mr. Otis has built his story on an historical 
foundation. It is so full of exciting incidents that the reader is 
quite carried away with the novelty and realism of the narrative. 

Frank Fowler, the Cash Boy. By Horatio Alger, Jr. 12mo, 

cloth, price $1.00. 

Thrown upon his own resources Frank Fowler, a poor boy, 
bravely determines to make a living for himself and his foster- 
sister Grace. Going to New York he obtains a situation as cash 
boy in a dry goods store. He renders a service to a wealthy old 
gentleman named Wharton, who takes a fancy to the lad. Frank, 
after losing his place as cash boy, is enticed by an enemy co a 
lonesome part of New Jersey and held a prisoner. This move re- 
coils upon the plotter, for it leads to a clue that enables the lad to 
establish his real identity. Mr. Alger’s stories are not only un- 
usually interesting, but they convey a useful lesson of pluck and 
manly independence. 

Budd Boyd’s Triumph’; or, the Boy Firm of Fox Island. By 

W'lLLiAM P. Chipman. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

The scene of this story is laid on the upper part of Narragansett 
Bay, and the leading incidents have a strong salt-water flavor. 
Owing to the conviction of his father for forgery and theft, Budd 
Boyd is compelled to leave his home and strike out for himself. 
Chance brings Budd in contact with Judd Floyd. The two boys, 
being ambitious and clear sighted, form a partnership to catch 
and sell fish. The scheme is successfully launched, but the un- 
expected appearance on the scene of Thomas Bagsley, the man 
whom Budd believes guilty of the crimes attributed to his father, 
leads to several disagreeable complications that nearly caused the 
lad’s ruin. His pluck and good sense, however, carry him through 
his troubles. In following the career of the boy firm of Boyd & 
Floyd, the youthful reader will find a useful lesson — that industry 
and perseverance are bound to lead to ultimate success. 


A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 


15 


The Errand Boy ; or, How Phil Brent Won Success. By 
Horatio Alger, Jr. 12mo, cloth, price |1.00. 

The career of “ The Errand Boy” embraces the city adventures 
of a smart country lad who at an early age was abandoned by his 
father. Philip was brought up by a kind-hearted innkeeper 
named Brent. The death of Mrs. Brent paved the way for the 
hero’s subsequent troubles. Accident introduces him to the 
notice of a retired merchant in New York, who not only secures 
him the situation of errand boy but thereafter stands as his 
friend. An unexpected turn of fortune’s wheel, however, brings 
Philip and his father together. In “The Errand Boy” Philip 
Brent is possessed of the same sterling qualities so conspicuous in 
all of the previous creations of this delightful writer for our youth. 

The Slate Picker : The Story of a Boy’s Life in the Coal Mines. 

By Harry Prentice. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

This is a story of a boy’s life in the coal mines of Pennsylvania. 
There are many thrilling situations, notably that of Ben Burton’s 
leap into the “ lion’s mouth ” — the yawning shute in the breakers 
— to escape a beating at the hands of the savage Spilkins, the 
overseer. Gracie Gordon is a little angel in rags, Terence O’Dowd 
is a manly, sympathetic lad, and Enoch Evans, the miner-poet, is 
a big-hearted, honest fellow, a true friend to all whose bur- 
dens seem too heavy for them to bear. Ben Burton, the hero, had 
a hard road to travel, but by grit and energy he advanced step by 
step until he found himself called upon to fill the position of 
chief engineer of the Kohinoor Coal Company. 

A Runaway Brig ; or. An Accidental Cruise. By James Otis. 

12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

“ A Runaway Brig ” is a sea tale, pure and simple, and that’s 
where it strikes a boy’s fancy. The reader can look out upon 
the wide shimmering sea as it flashes back the sunlight, and 
imagine himself afloat with Harry Vandyne, Walter Morse, Jim 
Libby and that old shell-back, Bob Brace, on the brig Bonita, 
which lands on one of the Bahama keys. Finally three strangers 
steal the craft, leaving the rightful owners to shift for themselves 
aboard a broken-down tug. The boys discover a mysterious 
document which enables them to find a buried treasure, then a i 
storm comes on and the tug is stranded. At last a yacht comes in 
sight and the party with the treasure is taken off the lonely key. 
The most exacting youth is sure to be fascinated with this enter- 
taining story. 

Fairy Tales and Stories. By Hans Christian Andersen. 

Profusely Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

If I were asked to select a child’s library I should name these three volumes 
‘English,’ ‘ Celtic,’ and ‘Indian Fairy Tales,’ with Grimm and Hans Ander- 
sen’s Fairy TaleSi.”— independent. 


16 


A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 


The Island Treasure ; or, Harry Darrel’s Fortune. By Frank 
H. Converse. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

Harry Darrel, an orphan, having received a nautical training on 
a school-ship, is bent on going to sea with a boyish acquaintance 
named Dan Plunket. A runaway horse changes his prospects. 
Harry saves Dr. Gregg from drowning and the doctor presents his 
preserver with a bit of property known as Gregg’s Island, and 
makes the lad sailing-master of bis sloop yacht. A piratical hoard 
is supposed to be hidden somewhere on the island. After much 
search and many thwarted plans, at last Dan discovers the 
treasure and is the means of finding Harry’s father. Mr. Con- 
verse’s stories possess a charm of their own which is appreciated 
by lads who delight in good healthy tales that smack of salt 
water. 

The Boy Explorers: The Adventures of Two Boys in Alaska. 
By Harry Prentice. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

Two boys, Raymond and Spencer Manning, travel from San 
Francisco to Alaska to join their father in search of their uncle, 
who, it is believed, was captured and detained by the inhabitants 
of a place called the “ Heart of Alaska.” On their arrival at 
Sitka the boys with an Indian guide set off across the mountains. 
The trip is fraught with perils that test the lads’ courage to the 
utmost. Reaching the Yukon River they build a raft and float 
down the stream, entering the Mysterious River, from which they 
barely escape with their lives, only to be captured by natives of 
the Heart of Alaska. All through their exciting adventures the 
lads demonstrate what can be accomplished by pluck and resolu- 
tion, and their experience makes one of the most interesting tales 
ever written. 

The Treasure Finders : A Boy’s Adventures in Nicaragua. By 
James Otis. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

Roy and Dean Colon ey, with their guide Tongla, leave their 
father’s indigo plantation to visit the wonderful ruins of an ancient 
city. The boys eagerly explore the dismantled temples of an ex- 
tinct race and discover three golden images cunningly hidden 
away. They escape with the greatest difficulty; by taking advan- 
tage of a festive gathering they seize a canoe and fly down the 
river. Eventually they reach safety with their golden prizes. 
Mr. Otis is the prince of story tellers, for he handles his material 
with consummate skill. We doubt if he has ever written a more 
entertaining story than “ The Treasure Finders.” 

Household Fairy Tales. By the Brothers Grimm. Profusely 
Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 



A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 


17 


Dan the Newsboy. By Horatio Alger, Jr. 12rao, cloth, 
price $1.00. 

The reader is introduced to Dan Mordaunt and his mother living 
in a poor tenement, and the lad is pluckily trying t® make ends 
meet by selling papers in the streets of New York. A little 
heiress of six years is confided to the care of the Mordaunts. At 
the same time the lad obtains a position in a wholesale house. 
He soon demonstrates how valuable he is to the firm by detecting 
the bookkeeper in a bold attempt to rob his employers. The 
child is kidnaped and Dan tracks the child to the house where 
she is hidden, and rescues her. The wealthy aunt of the little 
heiress is so delighted with Dan’s courage and many good qualities 
that she adopts him as her heir, and the conclusion of the book 
leaves the hero on the high road to every earthly desire. 

Tony the Hero : A Brave Boy’s Adventure with a Tramp. By ' 
Horatio Alger, Jr. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

Tony, a sturdy bright-eyed boy of fourteen, is under the control 
of Rudolph Rugg, a thorough rascal, shiftless and lazy, spending 
his time tramping about the country. After much abuse Tony 
runs away and gets a job as stable boy in a country hotel. Tony is 
heir to a large estate in England, and certain persons find it nec- 
essary to produce proof of the lad’s death. Rudolph for a con- 
sideration hunts up Tony and throws him down a deep well. Of 
course Tony escapes from the fate provided for him, and by a 
brave act makes a rich friend, with v/hom he goes to England, 
where he secures his rights and is prosperous. The fact that Mr. 
Alger is the author of this entertaining book will at once recom- 
mend it to all juvenile readers. 

A Young Hero; or. Fighting to Win. By Edward S. Ellis. 
12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

This storytells how a valuable solid silver service was stolen 
from the Misses Perkinpine, two very old and simple minded 
ladies. Fred Sheldon, the hero of this story and a friend of the 
old ladies, undertakes to discover the thieves and have them ar- 
rested. After much time spent in detective work, he succeeds in 
discovering the silver plate and winning the reward for its re- 
storation. During the narrative a circus comes to town and a 
thrilling account of the escape of the lion from its cage, with its 
recapture, is told in Mr. Ellis’ most fascinating style. Every 
boy will be glad to read this delightful book. 

The Days of Bruce: A Story from Scottish History. By Grace 
Aguilar. Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

“There is a delightful freshness, sincerity and vivacity about all of Gracg 
Aguilar’s stories which cannot fail to win the interest and admiration ot 
every lover of good reading.”— .Boston Beacon. 


18 


A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS, 


Tom the Bootblack ; or, The Road to Success. By Horatio 
Alger, Jr. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

A bright, enterprising lad was Tom the bootblack. He was 
not at all ashamed of his humble calling, though always on the 
lookout to better himself. His guardian, old Jacob Morton, died, 
leaving him a small sum of money and a written confession that 
Tom, instead of being of humble origin, was the son and heir of 
a deceased Western merchant, and had been defrauded out of his 
just rights by an unscrupulous uncle. The lad started for Cin- 
cinnati to look up his heritage. But three years passed away 
before he obtained his first clue. Mr. Grey, the uncle, did not 
hesitate to employ a ruffian to kill the lad. The plan failed, and 
Gilbert Grey, once Tom the bootblack, came into a comfortable 
fortune. This is one of Mr. Alger’s best stories. 

■ Captured by Zulus : A story of Trapping in Africa. By Harry 
Prentice. 12mo, cloth, price $1.C0. 

This story details the adventures of two lads, Dick Elsworth 
and Bob Harvey, in the wilds of South Africa, for the purpose of 
obtaining a supply of zoological curiosities. By stratagem the 
Zulus capture Dick and Bob and take them to their principal 
kraal or village. The lads escape death by digging their way 
out of the prison hut by night. They are pursued, and after a 
rough experience the boys eventually rejoin the expedition and 
take part in several wild animal hunts. The Zulus finally give 
up pursuit and the expedition arrives at the coast without further 
trouble. Mr. Prentice has a delightful method of blending fact 
with fiction. He tells exactly how wild-beast collectors secure 
specimens on their native stamping grounds, and these descrip- 
tions make very entertaining reading. 

Tom the Ready; or. Up from the Lowest. By Randolph 
Hill. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

This is a dramatic narrative of the unaided rise of a fearless, 
ambitious boy from the lowest round of foitune’s ladder — the 
gate of the poorhouse — to wealth and the governorship of his 
native State. Thomas Seacomb begins life with a purpose. While 
yet a schoolboy he conceives and presents to the world the germ 
of the Overland Express Co. At the very outset of his career 
jealousy and craft seek to blast his promising future. Later he 
sets out to obtain a charter for a railroad line in connection with 
the express business. Now he realizes what it is to match him- 
self against capital. Yet he wins and the railroad is built. Only 
an uncommon nature like Tom’s could successfully oppose such a 
combine. How he manages to win the battle is told by Mr. Hill 
in a masterful way that thrills the reader and holds his attention 
and sympathy to the end. 


A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 


19 


Roy Gilbert’s Search: A Tale of the Great Lakes. By Wm. P. 

Chipman. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

A deep mystery hangs over the parentage of Roy Gilbert. 
He arranges with two schoolmates to make a tour of the 
Great Lakes on a steam launch. The three boys leave Erie on 
the launch and visit many points of interest on the lakes. Soon 
afterward the lad is conspicuous in the rescue of an elderly gentle- 
man and a lady from a sinking yacht. Later on the cruise of the 
launch is brought to a disastrous termination and the boys nar- 
rowly escape with their lives. The hero is a manly, self-reliant 
boy, whose adventures will be followed with interest. 

The Young Scout; The Story of a West Point Lieutenant. By 
Edward S. Ellis. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

The crafty Apache chief Geronimo but a few years ago was the 
most terrible scourge of the southwest border. The author has 
woven, in a tale of thrilling interest, all the incidents of Geronimo’s 
last raid. The hero is Lieutenant James Decker, a recent graduate 
of West Point. Ambitious to distinguish himself so as to win 
well-deserved promotion, the young man takes many a desperate 
chance against the enemy and on more than one occasion nar- 
rowly escapes with his life. The story naturally abounds in 
thrilling situations, and being historically correct, it is reasonable 
to believe it will find great favor with the boys. In our opinion 
Mr. Ellis is the best writer of Indian stories now before the 
public. 

Adrift in the Wilds ; The Adventures of Two Shipwrecked 

Boys. By Edward S. Ellis. 12mo, cloth, price, $1.00. 

Elwood Brandon and Howard Lawrence, cousins and school- 
mates, accompanied by a lively Irishman called O’Rooney, are en 
route for San Francisco. Off the coast of California the steamer 
takes fire. The two boys and their companion reach the shore 
with several of the passengers. While O’Rooney and the lads 
are absent inspecting the neighborhood O’Rooney has an excit- 
ing experience and young Brandon becomes separated from his 
party. He is captured by hostile Indians, but is rescued by an 
Indian w’hom the lads had assisted. This is a very entertaining 
narrative of Southern California in the days immediately preced- 
ing the construction of the Pacific railroads. Mr. Ellis seems to 
be particularly happy in this line of fiction, and the present story 
is fully as entertaining as anything he has ever written. 

The Red Fairy Book. Edited by Andrew Lang. Profusely 

Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

“ A eift-book that will charm any child, and all older folk who have been 
fortunate enough to retain their taste for the old nursery stories.”— iiferarj/ 
World, 


20 


A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 


The Boy Cruisers ; or, Paddling in Florida. By St. George 

Rathborne. 12mo, cloth, price, $1.00. 

Boys who like an admixture of sport and adventure will find 
this book just to their taste. We promise them that they will 
not go to sleep over the rattling experiences of Andrew George 
and Roland Carter, who start on a canoe trip along the Gulf 
coast, from Key West to Tampa, Florida. Their first adventure 
is with a pair of rascals who steal their boats. Next they run 
into a gale in the Gulf and have a lively experience while it lasts. 
After that they have a lively time with alligators and divers 
varieties of the finny tribe. Andrew gets into trouble with a 
band of Seminole Indians and gets away without having his 
scalp raised. After this there is no lack of fun till they 
reach their destination. That Mr. Rathborne knows just how to 
interest the boys is apparent at a glance, and lads who are in 
search of a rare treat will do well to read this entertaining story, 

Guy Harris : The Runaway. By Harry Castlemon. 12mo, 

cloth, price $1.00. 

Guy Harris lived in a small city on the shore of one of the 
Great Lakes. His head became filled with quixotic notions of 
going West to hunt grizzlies, in fact, Indians. He is per- 
suaded to go to sea, and gets a glimpse of the rough side of life 
in a sailor’s I oarding house. He ships on a vessel and for five 
months leads a hard life. He deserts his ship at San Francisco 
and starts out to become a backwoodsman, but rough experiences 
soon cure him of all desire to be a hunter. At St. Louis he be- 
comes a clerk and for a time he yields to the temptations of a 
great city. The book will not only interest boys generally on 
account of its graphic style, but will put many facts before their 
eyes in a new light. This is one of Castlemon’s most attractive 
stories. 

The Train Boy. By Horatio Alger, Jr. 12mo, cloth, price 

$ 1 . 00 . 

Paul Palmer was a wide-awake boy of sixteen who supported 
his mother and sister by selling books and papers on one of the 
trains running between Chicago and Milwaukee. He detects a 
young man named Luke Denton in the act of picking the pocket 
of a young lady, and also incurs the enmity of his brother Ste- 
phen, a worthless follow. Luke and Stephen plot to ruin Paul, 
but their plans are frustrated. In a railway accident many pas- 
sengers are killed, but Paul is fortunate enough to assist a (-hicago 
merchant, who out of gratitude takes him into his employ. Paul 
is sent to manage a mine in Custer City and executes his com- 
mission with tact and judgment and is well started on the road 
to business prominence. This is one of Mr. Alger’s most attrac- 
tive stories and is sure to please all readers. 


A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 


21 


Joe’s Luck : A Boy’s Adventures in California. By Horatio 

Alger, Jr. 12mo, clotli, price $1.00. 

Without a doubt Joe Mason was a lucky boy, but be deserved 
the golden chances that fell to bis lot, for be bad the pluck and 
ambition to push himself to the front. Joe bad but one dollar in 
the world when be stood despondently on the California Mail 
Steamship Co.’s dock in New York watching the preparations in- 
cident to the departure of the steamer. The same dollar was 
still Joe’s entire capital when be landed in the bustling town of 
tents and one-story cabins — the San Francisco of ’51, and inside 
of the week the boy was proprietor of a small restaurant earning a 
comfortable profit. The story is chock full of stirring incidents, 
while the amusing situations are furnished by Joshua Bickford, 
from Pumpkin Hollow, and the fellow who modestly styles him- 
self the “Rip-tail Roarer, from Pike Co., Missouri.” Mr. Alger 
never writes a poor book, and “Joe’s Luck” is certainly one of 
his best. 

Three Bright Girls : A Story of Chance and Mischance. By 

Annie E. Armstrong. With full page Illustrations by W. 

Parkinson. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

By a sudden turn of fortune’s wheel the three heroin es of this 
story are brought down from a household of lavish comfort to 
meet the incessant cares and worries of those who have to eke out 
a very limited income. And the charm of the story lies in the 
cheery helpfulness of spirit developed in the girls by their changed 
circumstances; while the author finds a pleasant ending to all 
their happy makeshifts. 

“ The story is charmingly told, and the book can be warmly recommended 
as a present for girls.”— SfandarcZ. 

Giannetta: A Girl’s Story of Herself. By Rosa Mulholland. 

With full-page Illustrations by Lockhart Bogle. 12mo, 

cloth, price $1.00. 

The daughter of a gentleman, who had married a poor Swiss 
girl, was stolen as an infant by some of her mother’s relatives. 
The child having died, they afterward for the sake of gain sub- 
stitute another child for it, and the changeling, after becoming 
a clever modeler of clay images, is suddenly transferred to the 
position of a rich heiress. She develops into a good and accom- 
plished woman, and though the imposture of her early friends is 
finally discovered, she has gained too much love and devotion to 
be really a sufferer by the surrender of her estates. 

“ Extremely well told and full of interest. Giannetta is a true heroine— 
warm-hearted, self-sacrificing, and, as aU good women nowadays are. largely- 
touched with enthusiasm of humanity. The illustrations are unusually good. 
One of the most attractive gift books of the season.”— T/ie Academy. 


22 


A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 


Margery Merton’s Girlhood. By Alice Corkran. With full- 
page Illustrations by Gordon Browne. 12mo. cloth, price 
$ 1 . 00 . 

The experiences of an orphan girl who in infancy is left by her 
father — an officer in India — to the care of an elderly aunt residing 
near Paris. The accounts of the various persons who have an 
after influence on the story, the school companions of Margery, 
the sisters of the Conventual College of Art, the professor, and 
the peasantry of Fontainebleau, are singularly vivid. There is a 
subtle attraction about the book which will make it a great favorite 
with thoughtful girls. 

“ Another book for girls we can warmly commend. There is a delightful 
piquancy in the experiences and trials of a young English girl who studies 
painting in Pa.vis'''— Saturday Review. 

Under False Colors: A Story from Two Girls’ Lives. By 
Sarah Doudney. With full-page Illustrations by G. G. Kil- 
BURNE. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

A story which has in it so strong a dramatic element that it 
will attract readers of all ages and of either sex. The incidents 
of the plot, arising from the thoughtless indulgence of a decep- 
tive freak, are exceedingly natural, and the keen interest of the 
narrative is sustained from beginning to end. 

“Sarah Doudney has no superior as a writer of high-toned stories— pure 
in style, original in conception, and with skillfully wrought out plots; but 
we have seen nothing equal in dramatic energy to this book .” — Christian 
Leader. 

Down the Snow Stairs ; or, From Good-night to Good-morning. 
By Alice Corkran. With Illustrations by Gordon Browne. 
12mo, cloth, price 75 cents. 

This is a remarkable story: full of vivid fancy and quaint 
originality. In its most fantastic imaginings it carries with it a 
sense of reality, and derives a singular attraction from that com- 
bination of simplicity, originality, and subtle humor, which is so 
much appreciated by lively and thoughtful children. Children 
of a larger growth will also be deeply interested in Kitty’s strange 
journey, and her wonderful experiences. 

“Among all the Christmas volumes which the year has brought to our 
table this one stands out facile princeps—a gem of the first water, bearing 
upon every one of its pages tlie signet mark of genius. ... All is told 
with such simplicity and perfect naturalness that the dream appears to be a 
solid reality. It is indeed a Little Pilgrim’s Progress.”— C/irisfian Leader. 

The Tapestry Room : A Child’s Romance. By Mrs. Moles- 
WORTH. Illustrated by Walter Crane. 12mo, cloth, price 
75 cents. 

“Mrs. Molesworth is a charming painter of the nature and ways of children; 
and she has done good service in giving us this charming juvenile which will 
delight the young people.”— .4f/iencewm, London, 


A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 


23 


Little Miss Peggy : Only a Nursery Story. By Mrs. Moles- 
WORTH. With. Illustrations by Walter Crane. 12mo, cloth, 
price 75 cents. 

Mrs. Molesworth’s children are finished studies. She is never 
sentimental, but writes common sense in a straightforward man. 
ner. A* joyous earnest spirit pervades her work, and her sym- 
pathy is unbounded. She loves them with her whole heart, 
while she lays bare their little minds, and expresses their foibles^ 
their faults, their virtues, their inward struggles, their concept 
tion of duty, and their instinctive knowledge of the right and 
wrong of things. She knows their characters, she understands 
their wants, and she desires to help them. 

Polly : A New Fashioned Girl. By L. T. Meade. Illustrated 
12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

Few authors have achieved a popularity equal to Mrs. Meade 
as a writer of stories for young girls. Her characters are living 
beings of flesh and blood, not lay figures of conventional type. 
Into the trials and crosses, and everyday experiences, the reader 
enters at once with zest and hearty sympathy. While Mrs. 
Meade always writes with a high moral purpose, her lessons of 
life, purity and nobility of character are rather inculcated by 
example than intruded as sermons. 

Rosy. By Mrs. Moles worth. Illustrated by Walter Crane. 
12mo, cloth, price 75 cents. 

Mrs. Molesworth, considering the quality and quantity of her 
labors, is the best story-teller for children England has yet 
known. This is a bold statement and requires substantiation. 
Mrs. Molesworth, during the last six years, has never failed to 
occupy a prominent place among the juvenile writers of the 
season. 

“ A very pretty story. . . . The writer knows children and their ways 
well The illustrations are exceedingly well dra,vfn."— Spectator. 

Little Sunshine’s Holiday; A Picture from Life. By Miss 
Mulock. Illustrated by Walter Crane. 12mo, cloth, price 
75 cents. 

“ This is a pretty narrative of baby life, describing the simple doings and 
sayings of a very charming and rather precocious child nearly three years 

old.”— Pa« Mall Gazette. . , , . . t o 

“ Will be delightful to those who have nurseries peopled by Little Sun- 
shines ’ of their ovfn.'''‘—AthencBum. 

Esther: A Book for Girls. By Rosa N. Carey. Illustrated, 
12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

“ She inspires her readers simply by bringing them in contact with the 
characters, who are in themselves inspiring. Her simple stories are woven 
in order to give her an opportunity to describe her characters by their own 
conduct in seasons of trial.” — Chicago Times. 


24 


A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 


Sweet Content. By Mrs. Molesworth. Illustrated by W. 
Rainey. 12mo, cloth, price 75 cents. 

“ It seems to me not at all easier to draw a lifelike child than to draw a 
lifelike man or woman; Shakespeare and Webster were the only two men of 
their age who could do it with perfect delicacy and success. Our own age is 
more fortunate, on this single score at least, having a larger and far nobler 
proportion of female writers; among whom, since the death of Ge*)rge Eliot, 
there is none left whose touch is so exquisite and masterly, whose love is so 
thoroughly according to knowledge, whose bright and sweet invention is so 
fruitful, so truthful, or so delightful as Mrs. Molesworth.” — A. C. Swinburne. 

One of a Covey. By the Author of “Honor Bright,” “Miss 
Toosey’s Mission.” With Numerous Illustrations by H. J. A. 
Miles. 12mo, cloth, price 75 cents. 

“ Full of spirit and life, so well sustained throughout that grown-up readers 
may enjoy it as much as children. This ‘ Covey ’ consists of the twelve 
children of a hard-pressed Dr. Partridge, out of which is chosen a little girl 
to be adopted by a spoilt, fine lady. . . . It is one of the best books of the 
se&son.'"— Guardian. 

“ We have rarely read a story for boys and girls with greater pleasure. 
One of the chief characters would not have disgraced Dickens’ pen.” — 
Literary World. 

The Little Princess of Tower Hill. By L. T. Meade. Illus- 
trated, 12mo, cloth, price 75 cents. 

“ This is one of the prettiest books for children published, as pretty as a 
pond-lily, and quite as fragrant. Nothing could be imagined more attractive 
to young people than such a combination of fresh pages and fair pictures; 
and while children will rejoice over it— which is much better than crying for 
it— it is a book that can be read with pleasure even by older boys and girls.” 
— Boston Advertiser. 

Honor Bright ; or. The Four- Leaved Shamrock. By the Author 

of “One of a Covey,” “ Miss Toosey’s Mission,” etc., etc. 

With full-page Illustrations, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

“ It requires a special talent to describe the sayings and doings of children, 
and the author of ‘Honor Bright,’ ‘ One of a Covey.’ possesses that talent 
in no small decree.'’'— Literary Churchman. 

“A cheery, sensible, and healthy tale.”— Times. 

The Cuckoo Clock. By Mrs. Molesworth. With Illustra- 
tions by Walter Crane. 12mo, cloth, price 75 cents. 

“A beautiful little story. It will be read with delight by every child into 
whose hands it is placed. . . . The author deserves all the praise that has 
been, IS, and will be bestowed on ‘ The Cuckoo Clock.’ Children’s stories are 
plentiful, but one like this is not to be met with every day.”— PaZZ iHaW 
Gazette. 

Girl Neighbors; or. The Old Fashion and the New. By Sarah 
Tytler. With full-page Illustrations by C. T. Garland. 
12mo, cloth, price 75 cents. 

“ One of the most effective and quietly humorous of Miss Tytler’s stories 
‘Girl Neighbors ’ is a pleasant comedy, not so much of errors as of preju- 
dices got rid of, very healthy, very agreeable, and very well written 
^ectator. 


A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 


25 


The Little Lame Prince. By Miss Mulock. Illustrated, 
cloth, price 75 cents. 

“ No sweeter— that is the proper word— Christmas story for the little folks 
eoula easily be found, and it is as delightful for older readers as well. There 
IS a moral to it which the reader can find out for himself, if he chooses to 
think.”— HeraZd, Cleveland, 

The Adventures lof a Brownie. As Told to my Child. By 

Miss Mulock. Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price 75 cents. 

“ The author of this delightful little book leaves it in doubt all through 
whether there actually is such a creature in existence as a Brownie, but she 
makes us hope that there might he."— Standard^ Chicago. 

Only a Girl : A Story of a Quiet Life. A Tale of Brittany, 
Adapted from the the French by C. A. Jones. Illustrated, 
12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

“ We can thoroughly recommend this brightly written and homely narra- 
T&tive."— Saturday Review. 

Little Rosebud ; or. Things Will Take a Turn. By Beatrice 
Harraden. Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price 75 cents. 

“ A most delightful little book. . . , Miss Harraden is so bright, so 
healthy, and so natural withal that the book ought, as a matter of duty, to 
be added to every girl’s library in the land.”— BosZon Transcript. 

Little Miss Joy. By Emma Marshall. Illustrated, 12mo, 

cloth, price 75 cents. 

“ a very pleasant and instructive story, told by a very charming writer in 
such an attractive way as to win favor among its young readers. The illus- 
trations add to the beauty of the book.”— J7ZZca Herald. 

Little Lucy’s Wonderful Globe. By Charlotte M. Yonge, 
Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price 75 cents. 

“ This story is unique among tales intended for children, alike for pleasant 
Instruction, quaintness of humor, gentle pathos, and the subtlety with which 
lessons moral and otherwise are conveyed to children, and perhaps to their 
seniors as well.”— TZie Spectator. 

Joan’s Adventures at the North Pole and Elsewhere. By 
Alice Corkran. Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price 75 cents. 

“ Wonderful as the adventures of Joan are, it must be admitted that they 
are very naturally worked out * and very plausibly presented. Altogether 
this is an excellent story for ^\r\s."— Saturday Review. 

Count Up the Sunny Days : A Story for Boys and Girls. By 
C. A. Jones. With full-page Illustrations, 12mo, cloth, price 
75 cents. 

“ An unusually good children’s stovy."— Glasgow Herald. 

Sue and 1. By Mrs. O’Reilly. Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price 
75 cents. 

‘'A thoroughly deUghtful book, full of sound wisdom as well as fun.”— 
Athenceuf/t. i 


26 


A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 


Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. By Lewis Carroll. 
With 42 Illustrations by John Tenniel. 12mo, cloth, price 
75 cents. 

“ From first to last, almost without exception, this story is delightfully 
droll, humorous and illustrated in harmony with the story.”— iVew Forfc 
Express. 

Celtic Fairy Tales. Edited by Joseph Jacobs. Illustrated by 
J. D. Batten. 12mo, cloth, preic $1.00. 

“ A stock of delightful little narratives gathered chiefly from the Celtic- 
speaking peasants of Ireland.”— DaiZ?/ Telegraph. 

“A perfectly lovely book. And oh! the wonderful pictures inside. Get 
this book if you can; it is capital, all through.”— PaZi Mall Budget. 

English Fairy Tales. Edited by Joseph Jacobs. Illustrated 
by J. D. Batten. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

“The tales are simply delightful. No amount of description can do them 
justice. The only way is to read the book through from cover to cover.”— 
Magazine and Book Review. 

” The book is intended to correspond to ‘ Grimm’s Fairy Tales.’ and it must 
be allowed that its pages fairly rival in interest those of the well-known re- 
pository of folk-lore.” — Sydney Morning Herald. 

Indian Fairy Tales. Edited by Joseph Jacobs. Illustrated by 
J. D Batten. 12rao, clotb, price $1.00. 

“ Mr. Jacobs brings home to us in a clear and intelligible manner the enor- 
mous influence which ‘ Indian Fairy Tales ’ have had upon European litera- 
ture of the kind.” — Gloucester Journal. 

” The present combination will be welcomed not alone by the little ones for 
whom it is specially combined, but also by children of larger growth and 
added years.” — Daily Telegraph. 

The Blue Fairy Book. Edited by Andrew Lang. Profusely 
Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

“The tales are simply delightful. No amount of description can do them 
Justice. The only way is to read the book through from cover to cover.” — 
Magazine and Book Review. 


The Green Fairy Book. Edited by Andrew Lang. Profusely 
Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

“The most delightful book of fairytales, taking form and contents to- 
gether, ever presented to children.”— E. S. Hartland, in Folk-Lore. 

The Yellow Fairy Book. Edited by Andrew Lang. Profusely 
Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

“ As a collection of fairy tales to delight children of all ages ranks second 
to none.” — Daily Graphic (with illustrations). 

Through the Looking Glass, and What Alice Found There. 

By Lewis Carroll. With 50 Illustrations by John Tenniel. 

“ a delight alike to the young people and their elders, extremely funny 
both in text and illustrations.”— Poston Mispress. 


A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 


27 


The Heir of Redclyffe. By Charlotte M. Yonge. Illustrated, 
12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

“A narrative full of interest from first to last. It is told clearly and in a 
straightforward manner and arrests the attention of the reader at once, so 
that one feels afresh the unspeakable pathos of the story to the end.”— 
London Graphic. 

The Dove in the Eagle’s Nest. By Charlotte M. Yonge, 
Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

‘‘Among all the modern writers we believe Miss Yonge first, not in genius, 
but in this, that she employs her great abilities for a high and noble purpose. 
We know of few modern writers whose works may be so safely commended 
as hers.” — Cleveland Times. 

A Sweet Girl Graduate. By L. T. Meade. Illustrated, 12mo, 
cloth, price $1.00. 

“ One of this popular author’s best. The characters are well imagined and 
drawn. The story moves with plenty of spirit and the interest does not flag 
until the end too quickly comes.""— Pi-ovidence Journal. 

The Palace Beautiful : A Story for Girls. By L. T. Meade. 
Illustrated, cloth, 12mo, price $1.00. 

‘‘ A bright and interesting story. The many admirers of Mrs. L. T. Meade 
in this country will be delighted with the ‘ Palace Beautiful ’ for more reasons 
than one.” — New York Recorder. 

A World of Girls : The Story of a School. By L. T. Meade. 
Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

‘‘ One of those wholesome stories which it does one good to read. It will 
afford pure delight to her numerous readers.” — Boston Home Journal. 

The Lady of the Forest : A Story for Girls. By L. T. Meade. 
Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

‘‘ This story is written in the author’s well-known, fresh and easy style. 
All girls fond of reading will be charmed by this well-written story. It is 
told with the author’s customai-y grace and spirit.”— Boston Times. 

At the Back of the North Wind. By George Macdonald. 

Illustrated by George Groves, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

“ A very pretty story, with much of the freshness and vigor of Mr. Mac- 
donald’s earlier work. . . . It is a sweet, earnest, and wholesome fairy 
story, and the quaint native humor is delightful. A most delightful volume 
for young readers.” — Philadelphia Times. 

The Water Babies : A Fairy Tale for a Land Baby. By Charles 
Kingsley. Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00. 

‘‘ The strength of his work, as well as its peculiar charms, consist in his 
description of the experiences of a youth with life under water in the luxu- 
riant wealth of which he revels with all the ardor of a poetical nature.” — ■ 
New York Tribune. 


Fireside Series for Girls. 

Uniform Cloth Binding. Illustrated. 

A carefully selected series of books for 
girls, written by authors of acknowledged 
reputation. The stories are deeply interest- 
ing in themselves, and have a moral charm 
that emanates from the principal characters; 
they teach without preaching, are of lively 
interest throughout, and will win the hearts 
of all girl readers. 

Esther. By Rosa Nouchette Carey. Illustrated. 

Price $1.00. 

A World of Girls: The Story of a School. 

By L. T. Meade. Illustrated. Price $1.00. 

The Heir of Redclyffe. By Charlotte M. Yonge. Ulus. Price $1.00. 
The Story of a Short Life. By Juliana Horatia Ewing. Illustrated. 
Price .$1.00. 

A Sweet Girl Graduate. By L. T. Meade. Illustrated. Price $1.00. 

Our Bessie. By Rosa Nouchette Carey. Illustrated. Price $1.00. 

Six to Sixteen: A Story for Girls. By Juliana Horatia Ewing. Il- 
lustrated. Price $1.00. 

The Dove in the Eagle’s Nest. By Charlotte M. Yonge. Illustrated. 
Price $1.00. 

Gianetta; A Girl’s Story of Herself. By Rosa Mulholland. Illus- 
trated. Price $1.00. 

Jan of the Windmill: A Story of the Plains, By Juliana Horatia 
Ewing. Illustrated. Price $1.00. 

Averil. By Rosa Nouchette Carey. Illustrated. Price $1.00. 

Alice in Wonderland and Alice Through the Looking-Glass. Two 
volumes in one. By Lewis Carroll. Illustrated. Price $1.00. 

Merle’s Crusade, By Rosa Nouchette Carey. Illustrated. Price $1.00. 
Girl Neighbors; or, The Old Fashion and the New. By Sarah 
Tytler. Illustrated. Price $1.00. 

Polly: A New Fashioned Girl. By L. T. Meade. Ulus. Price $1.0Cl 
Aunt Diana. By Rosa N. Carey. Illustrated. Price $1.00. 

The Water Babies; A Fairy Tale for a Land-Baby. By Charles 
Kingsley. Illustrated. Price $1.00. 

At the Back of the North Wind. By George Macdonald. Illustrated. 
Price $1.00. 

The Chaplet of Pearls; or, The White and Black Ribaumont. By 
Charlotte M. Yonge. Illustrated. Price $1.00. 

The Days of Bruce: A Story of Scottish History. By Grace Agui- 
lar. Illustrated. Price $1.00. 

The Palace Beautiful: A Story for Girls. By L. T. Meade. Illus- 
trated. Price $1.00. 

Margery Merton’s Girlhood. By Alice Corkran. IHus. Price $1.00, 
Three Bright Girls: A Story of Chance and Mischance. By Annie 
E. Armstrong. Illustrated. Price $1.00. 

Pythia’s Pupils: The Story of a School. By Eva Hartner. Illus- 
trated. Price $1.00. 

The Lady of the Forest: A Story for Girls. By L. T. Meade. Illus- 
trated. Price $1.00. 

Only a Girl: A Tale of Brittany. By C. A. Jones. Ulus. Price $1.00. 
Honor Bright; or. The Four-Leaved Shamrock. By the author of 
Miss Toosey’s Mission. Illustrated. Price $1.00. 

Under False Colors: A Story from Two Girls’ Lives. By Sarah 
Doudney. Illustrated. Price $1.00. 



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